Facial Pain After Drinking: Is It Related to Trigeminal Nerve Issues?

Sore cheeks after drinking alcohol?

Hello: Recently, I've noticed that my cheeks feel sore when I drink alcohol, but it doesn't happen every time, even with the same type of alcohol.
Could this be related to the trigeminal nerve? Should I avoid alcohol completely or seek medical attention?

WH, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/07

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
WH,
You mentioned that you experience a tingling sensation in your cheeks when drinking alcohol.
I would like to know if you also experience headaches during this time.
Is it more pronounced when you drink red wine? The combination of red wine and cheese may trigger migraines.
This is less characteristic of typical trigeminal neuralgia, which usually presents unilaterally and rarely occurs bilaterally.
Pain is more commonly associated with the maxillary and mandibular branches.
The pain is described as severe, superficial, and sharp, occurring in paroxysms, with intensity ranging from moderate to severe.
Your symptoms may need to be considered in the context of acetaldehyde reactions during alcohol metabolism.
If you experience discomfort while drinking, I recommend consuming alcohol in moderation.
It seems unnecessary to abstain completely.
If this issue is troubling you, I suggest consulting a neurologist for further discussion.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to reach out with any related questions.
Wishing you good health and happiness.
Dr.
Chien-Yi Jiang, Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2022/02/07

More Info

Facial pain after drinking can indeed be related to issues with 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, which innervate different areas of the face. When you experience discomfort or pain in your cheeks after consuming alcohol, it could potentially indicate a sensitivity or irritation of the trigeminal nerve.

Alcohol can have various effects on the body, including vasodilation, which can lead to increased blood flow and possibly trigger pain in sensitive areas. Additionally, certain alcoholic beverages may contain compounds that can irritate the mucous membranes or trigger allergic reactions, leading to facial discomfort. For instance, red wine contains tannins and sulfites, which can provoke headaches and facial pain in some individuals.

If the pain is sporadic and only occurs with specific types of alcohol, it may be worth keeping a diary of your alcohol consumption and the corresponding symptoms. This could help identify any patterns or specific triggers. However, if the pain becomes more frequent, severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, numbness, or persistent headaches, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

In terms of treatment, if you suspect that your symptoms are related to the trigeminal nerve, it may be beneficial to avoid alcohol temporarily to see if your symptoms improve. If the facial pain persists even when abstaining from alcohol, or if you experience additional symptoms such as facial numbness or weakness, it would be prudent to seek medical advice. A neurologist or a specialist in facial pain can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to rule out any underlying conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve.

In summary, while occasional facial pain after drinking may not be a cause for alarm, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If they worsen or if you have concerns about your trigeminal nerve health, consulting a medical professional is the best course of action. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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