Salman Khan Reveals Battle With Rare Nerve Disorder Triggered on Film Set

Mumbai: Bollywood superstar **Salman Khan** has revealed that he first experienced symptoms of a serious nerve disorder, *Trigeminal Neuralgia*, in **2007 on the set of the film “Partner.”**

Speaking on the talk show *“Too Much with Kajol and Twinkle,”* Salman recalled that actress **Lara Dutta** lightly touched his face to remove a strand of hair, which triggered sudden and intense pain. “I jokingly said, ‘Wow Lara, you’re like electricity.’ But from that moment, the pain began,” he said.

The actor described the condition as unbearable, stating:

> “It was a pain you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy. It made everyday life extremely difficult.”

Salman endured the illness for **over seven years**, during which the pain struck every few minutes, especially while speaking or eating. Meals that should have taken minutes stretched into hours, as he forced himself to eat through the agony.

Initially mistaken for dental or oral issues, the true cause was later identified as **Trigeminal Neuralgia** — a neurological disorder affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face. Even light touches, chewing, brushing teeth, or a breeze could trigger excruciating pain.

To manage the condition, Salman consumed up to **750 mg of painkillers daily** and occasionally found minor relief with drinks. Despite this, he continued to work relentlessly, saying:

> “Whether it’s broken ribs, aneurysm in the brain, or AV malformation — I keep working.”

### What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal Neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve in the face. It can cause sudden, severe, and stabbing pain triggered by simple activities such as eating, speaking, or even light touch. The disorder is often referred to as the **“suicide disease”** due to its intensity and impact on quality of life.