Emily Morton was living her dream life in Australia three years ago. At just 28, she had recently married Andy, the love of her life, and they were already planning for the future. However, her blissful journey took a dramatic turn when an inexplicable pain in her teeth spiraled into a life-altering ordeal.
The Journey from Joy to Unrelenting Pain
It all began with what seemed to be a minor issue—a persistent ache in her teeth. Morton, initially brushing it off, found herself in excruciating agony as the pain worsened. A visit to the dentist revealed no abnormalities, leaving her baffled and in search of answers.
The pain soon spread, engulfing her entire face in an unrelenting torment. “Imagine having a dentist drill into every single one of your teeth 24/7 and being powerless to stop it,” Morton told news.com.au. Desperation set in as multiple visits to doctors and dentists yielded no definitive answers. Morton endured brain scans, blood tests, and endless consultations to uncover the root of her mysterious condition.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Eventually, Morton was diagnosed with atypical trigeminal neuralgia, a rare and debilitating condition often dubbed ‘suicide disease’ due to its intense pain. According to Arizona Pain, trigeminal neuralgia is caused by damage or irritation to the trigeminal nerve, which provides sensation to the face.
In typical cases, the condition affects only one side of the face. However, Morton’s case was particularly severe, with pain radiating across both sides. Everyday activities—smiling, eating, and even talking—became unbearable as she described the sensation as akin to being struck by lightning.
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by chronic pain that can be triggered by seemingly innocuous actions such as brushing your teeth or feeling a breeze against your face. The disorder’s nickname stems from the immense physical and emotional toll it takes on sufferers.
As per the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, about 150,000 people are diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia annually. While it can occur at any age, the condition is more prevalent in individuals over 50.
What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?
The Cleveland Clinic notes that trigeminal neuralgia is most commonly caused by blood vessel compression of the trigeminal nerve near the brainstem. This compression disrupts normal nerve function, resulting in severe neuropathic pain. Other causes include:
- Damage to the myelin sheath due to conditions like multiple sclerosis.
- Pressure from a tumor on the trigeminal nerve.
- Facial trauma or strokes that impact nerve integrity.
For Emily Morton, however, the exact cause remains a mystery. Despite exhaustive testing, she has not been able to pinpoint the root of her condition.
Living with the Most Painful Condition Known to Medicine
Morton’s daily life is a battle against relentless pain. “The condition has taken everything from me,” she shared. “We’ve spent thousands of dollars and traveled interstate and overseas seeking effective treatments.”
Her husband, Andy, has been a steadfast support system throughout their journey. Together, they have exhausted savings and raised funds to explore cutting-edge treatments in their quest for relief.
Exploring Treatment Options
Treating trigeminal neuralgia focuses on managing pain rather than curing the condition. Morton’s latest hope lies in a revolutionary procedure called MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound. This non-invasive technique uses ultrasound waves to target the thalamus, a region in the brain responsible for transmitting pain signals.
The procedure, recently introduced in Australia, offers Morton a 50% chance of experiencing relief. However, it comes with a hefty price tag. The total cost of the treatment, including travel and rehabilitation, exceeds $40,000. Generous donors on GoFundMe have contributed $20,000, enabling Morton to proceed with the procedure.
A Message of Hope
Despite her challenges, Morton remains optimistic. “In 2024, I believe there must be technology out there that can at least help,” she said. Her experiences have inspired her to advocate for individuals with invisible illnesses, raising awareness and pushing for better healthcare resources.
She emphasized the importance of community, stating, “I want others to know they’re not alone. Together, we can fight for a better future.”
What Can Be Done?
Trigeminal neuralgia highlights the need for advanced research and accessible healthcare. Morton’s journey underscores the resilience of individuals battling chronic conditions and the critical role of public support in enabling access to life-changing treatments.
To learn more about trigeminal neuralgia and ways to help, visit resources like the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or support Morton’s journey on her Facebook page.
Emily Morton’s unwavering determination serves as an inspiration to countless others facing similar battles, proving that hope and resilience can shine through even the darkest times.