Migraines, facial paralysis, and even stress are common causes of facial tingling.Many times, the symptom indicates the need for urgent care.
Last update: November 30, 2024
The technical name “paraesthesia” is used in medicine to describe tingling in the face. this is an itching or numb sensation in the face which is usually painless, but very annoying.
Some feel it like a tickle, while others feel a sting or warmth. Sometimes the duration is only a few minutes, but ther are cases where it lasts hours.
Causes include stroke, multiple sclerosis, B vitamin deficiency and dental disorders. But there are others and we explain them all below.
1. Pressure on the nerves
Tingling in the face can be caused by pressure on the nerves that transmit sensations to this area. It is indeed the result of various situations, such as sleeping with your face pressed into the pillow or due to facial muscle tension
If the tingling is due to an uncomfortable position, it is recommended to perform stretching exercises and maintain good posture throughout the day. Sinusitis, for its part, requires medical treatment with anti-inflammatories.
2.Migraine
During a migraine episode, especially in those with aura, neurological symptoms may be felt. such as, visual disturbances and sensations of tingling or numbness in various parts of the body, including the face.
Treatment for migraine headaches can reduce the number of attacks you experience in a year. Drugs such as triptans and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are most commonly used to relieve both headache and associated neurological symptoms.
3. Cerebrovascular accident
One of the most serious causes of facial tingling is stroke. This event happens more among men and it happens when there is an interruption in the flow of blood reaching some area of the brain, due to the blockage or rupture of a vessel.
In addition to paresthesias, other symptoms of stroke include the following:
- Weakness in the arms or legs.
- Difficulty speaking.
- Facial asymmetry.
When a stroke is suspected, It is essential to go to the emergency service or call an ambulance. Depending on the type of stroke, treatment will consist of medications to dissolve clots or surgical procedures to repair damaged blood vessels.
4. Bell’s facial palsy
Bell’s palsy is a neurological condition that affects the facial nerve. This structure becomes inflamed or injured and weakness appears on one side of the face, with different degrees of severity. It can be caused by viral infections, trauma, autoimmune conditions or stroke.
Typical symptoms include, in addition to tingling, the following:
- Facial asymmetry.
- Difficulty closing your eyes.
- Saliva falling from the corner of the mouth.
Treatment for paralysis depends on the underlying cause. It may include anti-inflammatory, antiviral, or corticosteroid medications to reduce nerve inflammation. in some cases, physical therapy is recommended to restore movement and muscle function in the area.
5. Stress
Tingling in the face can be a symptom related to stress and anxiety. When a person experiences high levels of stress in the body, a response is triggered that can cause notable muscle tension in the neck, which will then put pressure on the facial nerves.
Relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, and regular exercise, are effective tools for reducing anxiety levels. An adequate rest routine and the practice of activities that promote relaxation, such as yoga, are also recommended.
6.Trigeminal neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia causes episodes of intense, stabbing pain in the face. They are often described as feeling like an electric shock.
Damage to the myelin sheath covering the trigeminal nerve is responsible for the tingling. The symptoms can be disabling and alter the mental health of patients, who perceive them as unbearable.
Episodes can last from one second to several minutes. They are usually triggered by everyday activities, such as talking, chewing, or touching your face.
Treatment includes anticonvulsant drugssuch as carbamazepine and gabapentin. In cases where medications are not enough for control, surgical options might potentially be considered to relieve pressure on the nerve.
7. Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis or MS is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Causes demyelination of nerve fibers.
This demyelination interferes with the transmission of signals between the brain and the rest of the body, which can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms, including tingling in the face. Paresthesias might potentially be one of the first signs patients experience, as well as one of the intermittent signs of the disease.
Multiple sclerosis has no cure. Corticosteroids and immunomodulators are prescribed to reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.At the same time, rehabilitation and physical therapies are vital to improve quality of life.
Lack of B vitamins can cause tingling in the face. These vitamins are necessary for the production of red blood cells and for the maintainance of myelin,which is the fatty layer that covers nerve fibers.
treatment involves dietary changes to incorporate foods rich in vitamins B12 (meat, dairy and eggs) and B6 (fish, chicken, bananas and legumes).Vitamin supplements are usually needed.
9. Dental diseases
Oral diseases can be a significant cause of facial tingling. When the tissues around the teeth become inflamed or infected, they generate stimuli that affect the nerves in the area.
dental diseases should be treated with a dentist. In case of dental paraesthesia after treatmentIt is essential to consult the professional who performed the procedure in the first instance.
10. Brain tumors
Depending on thier location and size, tumors can cause increased intracranial pressure. This, in turn, will cause severe headaches, nausea and sensory disturbances, such as paresthesias.
treatment for brain tumors varies depending on the type and stage of the tumor. Options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
11. Side effects of drugs
Facial tingling can be a side affect of several medications, such as:
- Chemotherapy (cisplatin and vincristine).
- Antibiotics (metronidazole and isoniazid).
- Antivirals.
Your healthcare provider can evaluate weather the medication is causing the symptom and adjust the dose or switch to another treatment. In certain specific cases, additional medications might potentially be recommended to manage symptoms.
12. Mineral deficiency
Potassium, calcium and sodium are necessary for the correct functioning of the nervous system and for muscle contraction:
- Potassium deficiency weakens the transmission of nerve signals.
- Low calcium can affect neuronal excitability and cause spasms or cramps.
Mineral imbalances can be caused by a poor diet,excessive fluid loss,or medical conditions. Treatment relies on dietary adjustments to increase intake of foods rich in potassium (bananas and leafy greens), calcium (dairy products and cruciferous vegetables), and sodium (salt).
13. Epilepsy
Focal seizures that originate in the parietal lobe of the brain can manifest with somatosensory symptoms. The sensations are described as an electric shock or tickling in the face.
Management of the disease is complex. It involves a extensive approach that includes treating seizures with anticonvulsants.
14.Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
The temporomandibular joint or TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skull. When there is a disorder in this area, due to bruxism, injury or dental malocclusion, the facial muscles are overloaded and the nerves are compressed.
The symptoms don’t just consist of tingling. There is also pain in the jaw, clicking when moving and contractures in the neck..
Analgesics and anti-inflammatories can be used to relieve pain,as can physical therapy. In some cases, the use of dental splints is recommended to prevent bruxism.
When to worry about tingling on the face?
Although facial paresthesias are not always a cause for alarm, there are signs that indicate the need for short-term medical treatment and they are the following:
- The tingling persists for more than 30 minutes without improving.
- There is disorientation, mental confusion, or loss of consciousness.
- It is accompanied by blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss.
- Rashes, redness, or inflammation appear in the area.
- There are associated neurological symptoms, such as weakness on one side of the face or body, difficulty speaking, or loss of coordination.
Evaluation by a healthcare professional will always be best to determine the cause of the tingling. Furthermore, it will be possible to establish an adequate treatment plan with your doctor.
Pay attention to tingling and the symptoms that accompany it
In general, tingling can be caused by several conditions, many of which are not serious.However, There are specific situations in which particular attention must be paid.
Stroke, epilepsy and migraines are serious. In contrast, TMJ dysfunction and stress are less urgent conditions to manage.
It is not easy to identify the cause at home, but The associated symptoms can guide you. When in doubt, act quickly so the situation doesn’t become a bigger problem.
What are the symptoms of sodium deficiency related to nerve function?
Lass=”sc-10a79b4c-0 fxketF”>Sodium deficiency can lead to decreased nerve function, resulting in tingling sensations. Maintaining a balanced diet that includes adequate amounts of these minerals is essential for overall nerve health.
If you suspect a mineral deficiency, it’s critically important to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform blood tests to determine your levels and recommend dietary changes or supplements as needed.
13. Hypoparathyroidism
Hypoparathyroidism is a condition where the parathyroid glands produce insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH), leading to low levels of calcium in the blood.This deficiency can cause symptoms such as tingling in the fingertips, toes, and face, and also muscle cramps and spasms.
Treatment typically involves calcium and vitamin D supplements to help maintain normal calcium levels in the blood. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is crucial to manage the condition effectively.
14. Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage to the peripheral nerves, which can result from various conditions, including diabetes, alcohol abuse, infections, and exposure to toxins. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness, and pain in the affected areas.
management of peripheral neuropathy depends on the underlying cause. It may involve lifestyle changes, medications to manage pain, and therapies to improve nerve function.
Conclusion
Tingling in the face can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from stress and dietary deficiencies to more serious medical conditions like multiple sclerosis and brain tumors. If you are experiencing persistent or severe facial tingling, it is essential to seek medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can definitely help manage symptoms effectively and improve quality of life.