Facial and Scalp Numbness: When to Seek Medical Help

Scalp numbness and facial numbness?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing tingling in my scalp for the past few days, and now my left face has started to feel numb as well.
Occasionally, my left hand also feels numb, but not as much as my face.
Due to the pandemic, I haven't sought medical attention yet.
I would like to ask if you would recommend that I see a doctor? Since the symptoms are all on the left side, could this be related to a neurological issue or a heart problem? I had an electrocardiogram and an echocardiogram last November, which showed no issues, but I did not have any numbness at that time.
Thank you for your hard work, Doctor.

Qing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/06

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Ching,
Your symptoms are occurring on the same side, affecting both your face and limbs.
It is advisable to rule out any structural issues in the brain, starting with cerebrovascular diseases.
Generally, individuals with high blood pressure have a higher risk of experiencing a stroke.
Conversely, low blood pressure can lead to inadequate cerebral circulation, potentially causing borderzone ischemia.
I wonder if you have metabolic syndrome (such as increased waist circumference, elevated fasting blood sugar, or abnormal lipid levels); if so, you would also be in a high-risk group for stroke.
Additionally, smoking can contribute to cerebrovascular disease.
I recommend that you undergo an evaluation for risk factors related to brain and vascular diseases.
If you are concerned about radiation exposure, you may consider paying out-of-pocket for a brain MRI.
Furthermore, as a young woman, it is important to rule out autoimmune and metabolic issues.
For nerve repair, it is suggested to supplement with B vitamins and manage risk factors.
I recommend consulting a neurologist to discuss further examinations and treatment options.
However, due to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, it is advisable to wait until the situation stabilizes before visiting the hospital for examinations.
Please ensure to implement self-protection measures, including cleaning and disinfecting, and adhere to new preventive health practices.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi
Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/06/06

More Info

Facial and scalp numbness can be concerning symptoms, especially when they occur on one side of the body. Given your description of experiencing numbness in your scalp, left side of your face, and occasionally in your left hand, it is important to consider several potential underlying causes, including neurological and vascular issues.

Firstly, the unilateral nature of your symptoms (affecting the left side) raises the possibility of a neurological condition. Conditions such as Bell's palsy, which is a form of temporary facial paralysis, can cause numbness and weakness on one side of the face. This condition is often idiopathic, meaning the exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be related to viral infections that affect the facial nerve. Another possibility is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often referred to as a "mini-stroke," which can present with sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body. TIAs are temporary and usually resolve within 24 hours, but they are serious warning signs of potential future strokes.

Additionally, the involvement of your left hand could suggest a broader neurological issue, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or a cervical spine problem, where nerve roots are being compressed. MS can cause a variety of neurological symptoms, including numbness and tingling, and often affects one side of the body.
Given that you have previously had a normal echocardiogram and electrocardiogram (ECG), it is less likely that your symptoms are directly related to a cardiac issue. However, it is still essential to consider that vascular problems can lead to neurological symptoms, and a thorough evaluation is necessary.

In light of these considerations, I strongly recommend that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider will likely perform a comprehensive neurological examination and may order imaging studies, such as an MRI of the brain, to assess for any structural abnormalities or lesions. Blood tests may also be conducted to rule out metabolic or inflammatory conditions that could contribute to your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms may not necessarily indicate a severe condition, the unilateral nature of the numbness, especially combined with the involvement of your hand, warrants prompt medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can be crucial in managing any potential underlying conditions effectively. Please do not delay in seeking care, as timely assessment is key to addressing any neurological concerns.

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