Scalp and Facial Numbness: Possible Neurological Concerns

Q: Scalp and Facial Numbness: Possible Neurological Concerns

Hello, Miss： You mentioned whether there is a greater possibility of stroke or brain tumor issues. <br>I wonder if you have any problems related to hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia? Generally, the risk factors for cerebral artery embolism include older age, diabetes, hyp

Tingling sensations in the scalp and face?

Hello, doctor.
This year I have experienced tingling in my scalp and face, mostly in the upper right side of my scalp and right cheek, with occasional sensations on the left side.
I also have experienced tingling and pain in my chest, which led me to see a cardiologist.
The doctor mentioned mild mitral valve regurgitation but found no other issues and recommended that I consult a neurologist.
Additionally, I have been suffering from insomnia (only able to sleep 3-5 hours), increased anxiety, and a slightly elevated heart rate (about 85-95 bpm while sitting).
I find it difficult to breathe in crowded places, and sometimes I experience pain in my cheeks and on both sides of my jaw (with no specific timing).
I have undergone X-rays and an abdominal CT scan, which indicated degenerative bone spurs.
Recently, I have noticed a vibrating sensation when looking at black and white patterns.
I visited an ophthalmologist who confirmed that there are no eye issues but suggested that it could be related to a brain problem.
I would like to ask if my symptoms could indicate a higher likelihood of a stroke or brain tumor.
Thank you for your clarification!

Nìmíng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, Miss: You mentioned whether there is a greater possibility of stroke or brain tumor issues.
I wonder if you have any problems related to hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia? Generally, the risk factors for cerebral artery embolism include older age, diabetes, hypertension, and arrhythmias.
Your chances of experiencing these conditions are relatively low.

You also mentioned insomnia (only able to sleep 3-5 hours), feeling easily anxious, and having a fast heart rate (about 85-95 beats per minute while sitting).
You find it difficult to breathe in crowded places, and sometimes you experience pain in your cheeks and on both sides of your jaw (with no specific timing).
These symptoms may indicate an issue with sympathetic nervous system overactivation.

Generally, the autonomic nervous system is regulated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems—one acts as the accelerator, while the other acts as the brake.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for stimulating the body, leading to increased heart rate, faster breathing, increased sweating, and decreased gastrointestinal motility, which can also exacerbate gastroesophageal reflux.
Once physical activity ceases, the parasympathetic nervous system takes over, slowing the heart rate, reducing breathing rate, decreasing sweating, and restoring normal gastrointestinal motility, which is why you may feel very hungry an hour after exercising.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist to discuss the examination of your autonomic nervous system and potential treatments.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Hospital, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2022/09/10

More Info

Understanding scalp and facial numbness can be quite complex, especially when considering the various neurological concerns that may arise. Your symptoms, including scalp and facial numbness, chest discomfort, insomnia, and anxiety, warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, particularly a neurologist.

Firstly, let's break down your symptoms. The numbness in your scalp and right cheek could be indicative of several conditions. One possibility is a form of neuropathy, which can occur due to various factors, including stress, anxiety, or even vitamin deficiencies. Stress and anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause sensations of numbness or tingling in various parts of the body, including the face and scalp. This is often accompanied by other symptoms such as a racing heart, which you have also experienced.

Your mention of chest discomfort and a diagnosis of mild mitral valve regurgitation is also significant. While this condition is generally not life-threatening, it can sometimes cause symptoms that overlap with anxiety, such as palpitations and chest pain. It’s essential to monitor these symptoms closely, especially if they worsen or are accompanied by other concerning signs, such as shortness of breath or severe pain.

The fact that you experience facial pain and discomfort in your jaw could suggest a condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, which can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. TMJ disorders can lead to pain in the jaw, face, and even headaches, and they can sometimes cause referred pain that feels like it’s coming from deeper structures.

Regarding your concerns about more serious conditions like a stroke or brain tumor, it’s crucial to understand the risk factors and symptoms associated with these conditions. Strokes often present with sudden onset of symptoms such as weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, or severe headache. Brain tumors can cause a variety of symptoms depending on their location, including persistent headaches, changes in vision, or seizures. However, your symptoms, particularly the numbness and anxiety-related issues, do not strongly suggest these severe conditions at this point.

Given your ongoing symptoms, it is advisable to follow through with the neurologist's recommendations. They may suggest imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any structural abnormalities in the brain or spinal cord. Additionally, they may recommend blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies, thyroid function, and other metabolic issues that could contribute to your symptoms.

In the meantime, managing your anxiety and stress levels can be beneficial. Techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and relaxation exercises can help alleviate some of the symptoms you are experiencing. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are also essential for overall health and can help mitigate some of the anxiety-related symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning and warrant further investigation, they do not immediately suggest a life-threatening condition like a stroke or brain tumor. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare providers to explore the underlying causes of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Remember, early intervention and management can significantly improve your quality of life and overall well-being.

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