Why Is My Face Tingling? – Common Causes & Treatments

Has anyone ever felt a peculiar sensation of tingling in their face? – A feeling as if tiny ants are let loose beneath your skin, or a subtle electric current is coursing through your nerves.

While this feeling is uncomfortable, perhaps even alarmingly discomforting – But there’s nothing to worry about, you’re not alone, and this feeling of face tingling can often be explained and treated.

In today’s comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the mysteries behind tingling in face, navigating its various causes, diagnostic methods, and the available treatment options.

What is Face Tingling?

Face tingling, medically termed as paresthesia, refers to a tingling, prickling, or burning sensation on the skin of the face. It can occur suddenly or develop gradually, and it may affect one or both sides of the face. While tingling in face is usually harmless and temporary, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires attention.

Why is my Face Tingling?

The most common face tingling causes include:

• Nerve Damage: Damage to the facial nerves, such as trigeminal neuralgia or Bell’s palsy, can cause face tingling.

• Migraine: Migraine headaches can be accompanied by sensory disturbances, including tingling in face.

• Multiple Sclerosis: This neurological condition can lead to damage of the myelin sheath surrounding nerves, resulting in tingling sensations.

• Anxiety: Psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety, can manifest physically, leading to sensations like face tingling.

• Allergic Reaction: Allergies can cause inflammation of facial nerves, resulting in tingling or itching sensations.

• Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause temporary or permanent nerve damage, leading to face tingling.

• Fibromyalgia: This chronic pain condition can cause various sensory symptoms, including face tingling.

• Anesthesia: Following dental or medical procedures involving anesthesia, some individuals may experience temporary tingling in face as the anesthesia wears off.

• Infection: Viral or bacterial infections, such as shingles or Lyme disease, can affect facial nerves and cause tingling.

• Systemic Illness: Conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism can lead to nerve damage, resulting in tingling in face.

• Tumor: Rarely, tumors pressing on facial nerves can cause tingling sensations.

• Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins B12 or D can affect nerve function, leading to face tingling.

Face Tingling Diagnosis

Diagnosing the underlying cause of face tingling often requires a comprehensive medical evaluation. The required diagnostic methods may include:

• Physical examination
• Neurological examination
• Blood tests
• Imaging studies (MRI, CT scan)
• Nerve conduction studies
• Electromyography (EMG)

How To Treat Face Tingling?

Treatment for tingling in face depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Medications: Depending on the cause, medications such as pain relievers, antiviral drugs, or antidepressants may be prescribed.

• Therapy: Physical therapy or occupational therapy may help improve nerve function and reduce tingling sensations.

• Lifestyle changes: Managing stress, improving nutrition, and avoiding triggers (such as allergens or certain foods) can help get rid of the symptoms.

• Surgical interventions: In cases of nerve compression or tumors, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerves.

When To See a Doctor?

While occasional face tingling may not be a cause for concern, you should seek medical attention if:

• Tingling persists or worsens over time
• Tingling is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
• Tingling occurs suddenly and is severe
• You have a history of neurological conditions or risk factors for stroke

Frequently Asked Questions

– Disclaimer –

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.