I may have TN or ATN, but even for ATN it seems atypical according to my GP. Bottom line, I get severe pain around my right ear, burning, tender to the touch, sometimes ice pick though the eardrum. This can be accompanied or preceded by numerous other pains. It might be TN or just my MS. They haven't yet labeled it. I know it hurts. I also know that the steroids they gave me for my last MS flare put that into remission for almost a year.

And it hurts more when you're dealing with a recent loss. I'm so sorry.

As to arming yourself against "country" doctors, start with the links on this page. Learn as much as you can about the condition, understand the language. I have even seen some people discuss how to read MRI reports, etc.

Now, a word of motherly caution: While you have all this knowledge, be careful how you talk to your docs. Just put together a list of questions, and make a note if it brings up a new one. Include notes about possible tests to run, or specific results you don't understand. You have a right to understand all of it. Don't let the white coats put you off. Try to keep things short, but try not to leave dissatisfied or ill at ease about something. And if you do, leave a message at the office for the dr to call you --you have a question.

Basically, Inform yourself as best you can about your condition, and take an active part in your medical care. Understand what tests are being done ande why, etc. Who else but you has your best interests at heart?

Taking care of something while grieving is helpful too. Might as well take care of yourself, right?