TN is different for everyone as far as the actual pain they experience, as well as the frequency and reoccurrence.
Usually people with TN avoid touching their face or anywhere that may be a trigger. Trigger points will usually bring on an attack.
I have Type II Trigeminal Neuralgia so my pain is pulsating and electric but also constant. Every day.
The site of your TN is similar to mine. Mine starts in my teeth but radiates to my cheek, jaw and into my ear. I was diagnosed a long time ago with TMJ. There are many that believe that is simply a blanket term and is largely overly misdiagnosed.
When my TN goes into my ear it mimics and ear ache or sinus infection. I have been seen many times by my GP to check for infections and there isn't one.
Receiving a TN diagnosis can be a long and difficult road. An MRI and a neurologist are the first steps. Also, if your "attacks" do return you should start looking into medication because, like Jean said, they can escalate quickly.
Good luck!!!

Thanks!

Arrghhh! Had another attack today. I thought I was home free because it's been a week since the last one. So glad I made that appointment with the neuro.

Oh no! Sorry to hear that

How long do you have to wait to see the neurologist?? If it is a long wait you should really start looking into meds.

Luckily my appointment is for Wednesday. Bad timing, being the day before Thanksgiving, and I'm cooking for 20 people, lol, but I was really anxious to get in there and find out what's going on.

What do you think I should expect to happen during the first visit? Will it be more than just an exam?

I really hope he doesn't have to press down on the nerve or anything during the exam. The thought of that is giving me anxiety!

I'm glad that you have an appointment so quickly. Are you in the US?

I am in Canada. Here we have "free" medical care and have to wait to see specialists sometimes. I was diagnosed, had an MRI and started medication in September but have to wait a couple more months to see a neuro. So I don't have any advice there!

The most important thing is medication. Most of the meds take time to increase dosages and start working so you REALLY don't want to wait on that. Some peoples' TN can really escalate so don't take any chances. The second most important thing is the MRI.

I sent you a private message too

Yes, I'm in the US. I was surprised that I only had to wait a week to see the neuro. I'm guessing there was an opening because it is the day before the holiday.

I'm a little nervous about the meds because I am super sensitive to everything. I can't even take children's cold medicine without getting jittery. Lol!