Hi, glad you found us - there is a wealth of helpful information here and a whole lot of caring and compassionate folks. I would suggest that you see a neurologist as soon as possible. They are usually the only ones who will diagnose TN, and it sounds like you definitely have some form of it.

I am by far no expert - thankfully, I have a very mild case of ATN compared to the others here. My episodes are very sporadic, and are always centered in my right ear and in the immediate area surrounding it. I was treated for "ear aches" for 3 years before they finally diagnosed TN. Sometimes like you, my ear will flair up for a few minutes and then just stop on its own - however, it usually lasts for 4 - 8 hours. Heat applied helps more than anything else and I also take a low dose of carbatrol (extended release tegretol) every day.

Sorry, to have not been much help with your symptoms, but I'm sure the others will come along soon and offer you some very good advice.

Until then, I am sending positive thoughts your way for some much needed pain relief.

Take care,
Rhonda