I've only had it a couple of times and both times were mild compared to what you and others have experienced. I still get shooting nerve pain from time to time, but, again, nothing compared to what you are experiencing. What you describe though is exactly what I get when I have the hug. So, instead of the face, it's my rib cage as well as the muscle spasms in my ribs.

I am glad that you called the on-call doctor and got something to help with the pain. I am also glad that what she prescribed is working well for you. It's funny how seizure meds can work for nerve pain. I hope you start feeling better soon.