Salman Khan Opens Up About His 7.5-Year Struggle with Trigeminal Neuralgia
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan opened up about his challenging battle with trigeminal neuralgia, often referred to as the “suicide disease,” during an emotional episode of Prime Video’s chat show, Two Much with Kajol and Twinkle. The 59-year-old actor, who appeared alongside fellow star Aamir Khan, shared his personal experiences with the debilitating condition, which left him in excruciating pain for over seven years. His heartfelt revelations brought Kajol to tears, highlighting the severity of his struggle.
Salman’s Painful Journey
Salman Khan recounted the harrowing journey of living with trigeminal neuralgia, a condition characterized by intense facial pain. He described the pain as so severe that it would strike unexpectedly every four to five minutes, making even simple tasks like eating a challenge. “You have to learn to live with it,” he said, emphasizing the resilience required to cope with such a debilitating condition. The actor noted that it would often take him an hour and a half to finish breakfast, as he struggled to chew due to the pain. He recalled a moment during the filming of *Partner* in 2007 when the pain first struck him, triggered by a simple gesture from co-star Lara Dutta.
Initially, many believed his symptoms were related to dental issues, leading to a prolonged search for the correct diagnosis. Salman revealed that he was consuming around 750 mg of painkillers daily, which provided little relief. It wasn’t until he explained that the pain would temporarily subside after consuming alcohol that doctors began to suspect a nerve-related problem.
Treatment and Recovery
Salman Khan discussed the treatment options available for trigeminal neuralgia, including a procedure known as Gamma Knife Surgery. This complex surgery involves attaching screws to the patient’s face and can last up to eight hours. Salman underwent this procedure, which he described as life-changing. Initially, doctors informed him that he might experience a 20-30% reduction in pain. However, he expressed gratitude that the pain completely vanished post-surgery. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the condition, noting that many individuals suffer in silence, and the suicide rate among those affected is alarmingly high.
In sharing his story, Salman hopes to shed light on the struggles faced by those with trigeminal neuralgia and encourage others to seek treatment. He highlighted that advancements in medical science have made the condition more manageable than before.
Additional Health Concerns
In addition to his battle with trigeminal neuralgia, Salman Khan revealed earlier this year on *The Great Indian Kapil Show* that he is also dealing with a brain aneurysm and an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). These serious health conditions require careful monitoring, as a brain aneurysm can lead to life-threatening complications if it ruptures. Salman’s candid disclosures about his health challenges have resonated with fans and the public, showcasing his vulnerability and strength in facing adversity.
Salman first disclosed his diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia in 2017 during the promotional tour for his film *Tubelight* in Dubai. The condition affects the trigeminal nerve, leading to severe facial pain that can be triggered by everyday activities such as chewing or brushing teeth. His openness about these health issues serves as a reminder of the importance of mental and physical health awareness.
Impact on Fans and Public Awareness
Salman Khan’s revelations have sparked conversations about the often-overlooked struggles of those living with chronic pain. His willingness to share his experiences has not only touched the hearts of his fans but also raised awareness about trigeminal neuralgia and its impact on individuals’ lives. By discussing his journey, Salman aims to inspire others facing similar challenges to seek help and understand that they are not alone in their struggles.
The emotional impact of his story was evident during the chat show, where Kajol’s tears reflected the deep connection many feel towards the actor’s plight. As public figures like Salman Khan share their health battles, they play a crucial role in destigmatizing these conditions and encouraging open dialogue about mental and physical health.
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