Numbness of Face or Paraesthesia

Face | Rheumatology | Numbness of Face or Paraesthesia (Symptom)


Description

Paresthesia or also known as “Pins and needles” is a sensation of uncomfortable tingling or prickling, usually felt in the hands or feet. The affected area is sometimes said to have ‘fallen asleep’.

Paresthesia often fluctuates according to such influences as posture, activity, rest, edema, congestion, or underlying disease. Changing position quickly restores normal feeling. Any numbness is soon replaced by a tingling and prickling sensation, as the nerves start sending messages again to the brain and spinal cord.

Causes

One main cause of face numbness is injury or damage to a nerve. A cervical disc lesion may compress the spinal nerves enough to lead to face numbness. This numbness may be symmetrical or unilateral, and the feeling of numbness may vary. Strokes are one disorder that may also cause numbness or paralysis of the face. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and causes a lack of oxygen to the brain. If the body lacks a vitamin such as B12, facial numbness, or numbness in other areas, may result as well.

Other causes include a panic attack or a hyperventilation syndrome, stress or depression. Relaxation exercises or meditation may help alleviate symptoms in this case. Perioral numbness, or that which is around the mouth, may also precede migraines or accompany migraines in some sufferers.

The symptoms of paresthesia include: hands and feet are usually affected; initial numbness and heaviness; prickling and tingling sensation on the skin; return of normal feeling a few minutes after changing position.

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