The Incident That Sparked the Condition
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan recently disclosed that he has battled a rare and painful medical condition for years, which first appeared during the filming of the 2007 movie Partner.
According to Khan, the episode began when his co-star Lara Dutta brushed hair away from his face on set. He immediately felt a sharp, intense pain across his face. At the time, he took the incident lightly, thinking it was just a minor irritation or prank. However, that fleeting moment marked the onset of a serious health issue that would affect him for nearly a decade.
Struggling with Daily Pain
In a recent talk show appearance, Salman Khan revealed how severely the condition affected his daily life. “Eating, speaking, and even minor movements would trigger intense pain in my face every few minutes,” he explained. He added that the severity of the pain often led people to mistakenly believe it was a dental or oral problem.
For years, the actor had to endure this discomfort without fully understanding its cause. Simple actions like talking, chewing, or even exposure to a breeze could provoke episodes of excruciating pain, making daily life a challenge.
Diagnosis: Trigeminal Neuralgia
After thorough medical examinations, Salman Khan was diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia, a neurological disorder affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face. This condition is known for causing severe facial pain from ordinary stimuli such as touch, chewing, or changes in temperature.
Khan explained that at the peak of his symptoms, he would take up to 750 milligrams of painkillers daily. On some occasions, he relied on beverages for temporary relief. Despite the constant discomfort, he never considered stepping back from his professional commitments.
Perseverance Amid Challenges
Salman Khan emphasized that the condition affected him for almost seven years, yet he continued to work without compromise. Even while dealing with broken ribs or other physical challenges on set, he maintained his dedication to filming and professional responsibilities.
He shared, “Whether it was an aneurysm in the brain or other bodily complications, I always believed in hard work and consistent effort.” His commitment demonstrates not only his dedication to acting but also his resilience in facing severe health issues without letting them hinder his career.
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is sometimes referred to as the “suicide disease” due to the intensity of pain it causes. According to neurological studies, it primarily affects adults over 50, but cases among younger individuals, including celebrities like Salman Khan, are not unheard of. Symptoms can be triggered by routine activities such as brushing teeth, speaking, or touching the face, making the condition highly disruptive to normal life.
Medical treatments vary, including medications, injections, and in severe cases, surgery to alleviate nerve pain. Salman’s openness about his condition has raised awareness about the disorder in India and among Bollywood fans worldwide, showing that even celebrities face serious health battles.
A Story of Resilience
Salman Khan’s revelation highlights the human side of public figures. Despite his fame, wealth, and access to medical care, he endured years of severe pain while continuing to work tirelessly. His story serves as a reminder of perseverance, discipline, and courage in the face of chronic illness.
Fans and health advocates have praised Khan for speaking openly, which not only educates people about trigeminal neuralgia but also encourages those struggling with chronic conditions to seek help and remain hopeful.
