You won't die from this so rest easy on that note. If you haven't already done so, read through the stickies at the top of the thread. There is a lot of valuable informtion in there and a lot of good links to sites with reliable information. Personally, I haven't heard of a "pre-TN" diagnosis, but that doesn't mean anything since I'm not a medical type of person. On the plus side, at least you've gotten a diagnosis right away(early on) since it took me years to get one and I underwent a lot of useless treatment including antibiotics, steroids, and multiple scans. We all struggle with not knowing why we get this condition and the medical professionals can't tell us why we get it, so I appreciate your frustration, but you probably won't get an answer. A positive response to tegretol also indicates that the pain you're experiencing is nerve related and that helps the doctors make the diagnosis. As for the depression, we've all been there. You need time to accept the diagnosis and all that comes with it. Consider ordering a copy of the book "Striking Back" that is sold by the Trigeminal Neuralgia Asso(TNA). and I think its also available through Amazon. If you browse the threads on this board, you'll see a lot of people mentioning it and its full of great information regarding all aspects of this condition. The TNA's website is full of great information also and its another place to start getting more information. While its hard to find other people who know the pain of this condition, you're not alone on this board. There are support groups sponsored by the TNA so be sure to check and see if there are any in your area when you visit their website. I'm sure others will post their thoughts when they see your post. Take care and get information. EE