Berlin  - Episodes of lightning-like pain in the eyes, lips, nose, scalp, forehead, and jaw could be a sign of a potentially- agonising condition known as trigeminal neuralgia (TN).

The problem is often caused by contact between a normal artery or vein and the trigeminal nerve at the base of the brain. The contact puts pressure on the nerve and causes it to short-circuit or malfunction, the Berlin-based Germany Neurology Society points out.

The spasms of pain are intense and can be triggered by everyday activities as touching the face, chewing, speaking and brushing teeth. The pain may affect one side of the face at a time, be focused in one spot or else spread in a wider pattern.

The condition can usually be effectively managed using medication and injections but surgery is sometimes necessary. Many cases of trigeminal neuraligia go untreated since the pain is often attributed to dental problems.

Experts warn against using acupuncture to alleviate TN since this can trigger further attacks. (dpa)