Facial numbness and tingling, known medically as paresthesias, is a fairly common experience that can occur in any of us. Although it is often experienced as unpleasant and disturbing, it is usually not a serious health problem. However, in some cases, it can be a signal of more serious conditions. In this article, we will take a closer look at the causes of these ailments, as well as possible links to various diseases.
What are paresthesias?
Paresthesias are sensory disturbances that manifest as tingling, numbness and sometimes burning or itching of the skin. They can occur in various parts of the body, including the face. These sensations are caused by disturbances in the transmission of nerve signals from peripheral sensory receptors to the brain.
Causes of facial numbness and tingling
The causes of facial paresthesias can be many. Most often they are related to:
- Nerve compression:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome: Although it most often affects the hands, it can also cause numbness in the face, especially if the nerve compression is at the cervical level.
- Degeneration of the cervical spine: Discopathy or osteophytes can compress the nerves coming out of the spinal cord, leading to facial sensory disorders.
- Body position: Keeping the head in an uncomfortable position for long periods of time, such as when sleeping, can cause nerve compression and temporary numbness.
- Circulatory disorders:
- Low temperature: Facial cold can lead to circulation disorders and temporary numbness.
- Vascular diseases: atherosclerosis or vasculitis can restrict blood flow to the face and cause paresthesias.
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies:
- B vitamin deficiency: Vitamin B12 in particular is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system.
- Magnesium deficiency: Magnesium plays a key role in the conduction of nerve impulses.
- Neurological diseases:
- Multiple Sclerosis: One of the first symptoms of MS can be paresthesias, including facial numbness.
- Migraine: In some cases, migraines can be preceded by an aura, which manifests as facial numbness, among other things.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: This is a painful condition in which there is chronic facial pain, often preceded or accompanied by numbness.
- Stroke: Facial numbness, especially unilateral numbness, can be one of the first symptoms of a stroke.
- Other reasons:
- Diabetes: Diabetic neuropathy can lead to sensory disturbances, including facial paresthesia.
- Infections: Some viruses, such as the herpes virus, can cause nerve inflammation and temporary numbness.
- Medications: Some drugs, such as those used to treat chemotherapy, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
- Stress and tension: Prolonged stress can lead to facial muscle spasms and nerve compression.
When should I see a doctor?
If facial numbness:
- It occurs frequently and intensifies:
- It is accompanied by severe pain:
- It is one-sided:
- It appears suddenly:
- It is combined with other worrisome symptoms, such as speech, vision and balance disorders:
contact your doctor immediately.
Diagnostics
Diagnosis of the causes of facial numbness involves taking a detailed history, conducting a neurological examination and performing additional tests, such as:
- Bloodtests: Allow you to assess the levels of electrolytes, vitamins, thyroid hormones and rule out other diseases.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Assesses the condition of the brain, spinal cord and blood vessels.
- Computed tomography (CT): can be performed to evaluate the bone structure of the skull and cervical spine.
- Electroencephalography (EEG): A study of the electrical activity of the brain.
- Electromyography (EMG): A study of neuromuscular conduction.
Treatment
Treatment of facial numbness depends on the cause. It may include:
- Elimination of the triggering factor: e.g., change of position during sleep, treatment of the underlying disease.
- Medications: painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, antiepileptic drugs (for trigeminal neuralgia).
- Physiotherapy: stretching exercises for neck and shoulder muscles, massages.
- Injections: e.g., Botox for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.
- Surgical procedures: For nerve compression or other serious causes.
Prevention
To prevent facial numbness, it’s a good idea:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, regular physical activity, avoidance of stress.
- Take care of correct posture: both when sitting and standing.
- Avoid facial chill: wear warm hats and scarves in cold weather.
- Regularly visit the doctor: for health checks.
Summary
Facial numbness and tingling can have many causes, ranging from mild, such as an uncomfortable sleeping position, to serious, such as a stroke. If you’re experiencing these discomforts, it’s worth consulting a doctor who will conduct the appropriate tests and make the correct diagnosis. By detecting the cause early and starting treatment, you can avoid complications and improve your quality of life.
Note:
This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for consultation with a physician.
