Right Brain Pain and Oral Numbness: A Neurology Perspective

Head and face

Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing occasional sharp pains in my right brain, and there's a tingling sensation in the right side of my mouth, similar to the feeling of having a candy in my mouth for too long.
I also have increased saliva production.
I'm not sure if this is just psychological, and I would like to ask for your opinion.

Xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/25

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Hsuan,
You mentioned that you have a tingling sensation in the right side of your mouth, similar to the feeling of having candy in your mouth for too long.
This may warrant consideration of trigeminal nerve symptoms.
There are many potential causes for trigeminal nerve dysfunction, including meningiomas, multiple sclerosis, and herpes zoster.
Typically, this is associated with an inflammatory response, which can improve with rest.

For nerve repair, it is recommended to supplement with B vitamins and ensure adequate rest.
If the symptoms persist, I suggest consulting a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions!
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Chien-Yi Jiang, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2022/01/25

More Info

Understanding the symptoms you described—occasional sharp pain in the right side of your brain, along with a tingling sensation in the right side of your mouth and increased salivation—can be complex and multifaceted. These symptoms may be indicative of a neurological issue, particularly involving the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing.

The trigeminal nerve has three branches: the ophthalmic, maxillary, and mandibular nerves. The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the tingling sensation in the mouth and the pain in the right side of the brain, could suggest that the maxillary or mandibular branches are affected. This could be due to various reasons, including nerve compression, inflammation, or even a viral infection such as herpes zoster, which can lead to conditions like postherpetic neuralgia.

Additionally, the sensation of pain in the brain could be related to a phenomenon known as "referred pain," where pain is perceived in one area of the body due to the nerve pathways that are shared with other areas. For instance, irritation or inflammation in the trigeminal nerve can manifest as pain in the head, even though the issue originates in the facial region.

In your case, the increased salivation could also be a response to the irritation of the trigeminal nerve, which can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to changes in salivary gland activity. This is not uncommon in cases of nerve irritation or damage.

It is important to consider that while these symptoms may seem benign, they could also indicate more serious underlying conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, tumors, or other neurological disorders. Therefore, it is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation from a neurologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any structural abnormalities or lesions in the brain that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, managing stress and anxiety can also be beneficial, as these factors can exacerbate neurological symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and adequate sleep can help improve your overall well-being.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to the trigeminal nerve and could be benign, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate management. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better outcomes and help alleviate your symptoms effectively.

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