MrBallen’s Medical Mysteries Ep. 92 | Trigger Point
Jul 8, 2025
A college professor endures excruciating facial pain that strikes suddenly, leaving him and his doctors baffled. His quest for relief uncovers a string of misdiagnoses and raises the possibility of a risky surgery. The emotional toll of his journey is palpable as he faces the uncertainty of conflicting medical opinions. Additionally, the podcast explores the creative process behind blending true stories and fictional narratives, inviting listeners into a unique world of medical mysteries and gripping tales.
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David Linick's Pain Journey
- Professor David Linick experienced sudden, sharp spasms of stabbing pain in his left cheek starting after a flight in 2015.
- These spasms caused debilitating agony, disrupting his daily life and work as a professor.
Treatment Attempts and Relief
- David tried cold water exercises and antidepressants prescribed by a specialist, but his pain worsened.
- A new oral pain specialist suggested anesthetic injections to relax the muscles, providing some relief but requiring repeated procedures.
TN Diagnosis Arrives
- After years of pain and inconclusive tests, neurologist Dr. Bashar diagnosed David with trigeminal neuralgia (TN).
- TN is extremely painful, caused by damage or pressure on the trigeminal nerve, sometimes termed the 'suicide disease'.
