Originally Posted by Bassetcase

Hi there, sorry to have to meet like this, but yes I too have been diagnosed with the Atypical TN. My pain is like you say constant, throbbing, burning, boring sensation - but centered in my right ear and the immediate area surrounding it. Oh, and along with the constant pain are the intermittent ice picks to the ear. Turning my head to the left, talking, and OMG smiling is excrutiating. Thankfully, my episodes are very sporadic usually at least once a month for 4-8 hrs at a time and sometimes several days in a row and then may not have another for 3 months. No triggers are apparent for when it flares up. I take the extended release tegretol (brand name Carbatrol) but only when I have an episode. Heat applied to my ear with the meds usually soothes somewhat until the episode is over.

I was diagnosed with inner ear problems for about 3 years before it was ruled out with several head scans by three doctors.

Sorry you are hurting, hope this helps a little.

Good Luck,
Rhonda