NEURALGIA Meaning and
Definition
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Neuralgia is a medical condition characterized by intense and severe pain that is caused by the irritation or damage to a nerve or the nervous system. The pain associated with neuralgia is often described as sharp, shooting, stabbing, or burning, and it can be intermittent or constant. It typically occurs along the path of one or more nerves and is often triggered by even mild stimulation, such as brushing against the affected area or talking.
Neuralgia can have several underlying causes, including compression or inflammation of a nerve, nerve damage due to injury or trauma, infection, certain medical conditions like diabetes or multiple sclerosis, or even by the presence of a tumor. The most common type of neuralgia is trigeminal neuralgia, which affects the fifth cranial nerve responsible for sensation in the face.
While anyone can develop neuralgia, it most commonly affects older individuals, particularly those over the age of 50. The diagnosis of neuralgia is usually made after a thorough examination and medical history review, and in some cases, additional tests such as imaging scans or blood tests may be necessary to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment for neuralgia often involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help manage the pain associated with neuralgia. In some cases, surgical procedures or nerve blocks may be recommended to provide relief.
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Nerve pain; pain of a severe, throbbing or stabbing character in the course or distribution of a nerve.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Violent pain of a nerve, as in the head or face.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of NEURALGIA
The word "neuralgia" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "neuron" meaning "nerve" and "algos" meaning "pain". "Neuron" comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *snewh₁- which means "tendon, sinew, ligament". It is also related to the Sanskrit word "snāvan" meaning "nerve" and the Old Norse word "snerpa" meaning "to stretch". "Algοs" also has a Proto-Indo-European root *h₂elǵʰ-, meaning "pain". It is related to the Latin word "algesis" and the Old English word "ealgian", both meaning "to be in pain". Thus, the word "neuralgia" literally means "nerve pain".
Similar spelling words for NEURALGIA
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