Right Mouth Corner Spasms After Eating Spicy Foods

Q: Right Mouth Corner Spasms After Eating Spicy Foods

Hello Mr. <br>Hsiao-Chih： You mentioned that "after eating spicy food, the right corner of my mouth experiences spasms and numbness for about a few seconds," which may indicate instability of the trigeminal nerve. <br>Typical trigeminal neuralgia usually occurs unilaterally and r

Twitching and numbness in the right corner of the mouth?

Doctor, after I eat spicy food, the right corner of my mouth experiences muscle spasms and numbness for about a few seconds.
This happens especially around noon, approximately every two weeks, or three times a month.
However, there are times when I eat spicy food at noon and do not experience this symptom.
So, it only occurs about three times a month.
This symptom has been present for over two years, and it's strange that it occurs more frequently around noon.
What could be the reason for this?

Xiao Zhi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/19

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Hsiao-Chih: You mentioned that "after eating spicy food, the right corner of my mouth experiences spasms and numbness for about a few seconds," which may indicate instability of the trigeminal nerve.
Typical trigeminal neuralgia usually occurs unilaterally and rarely affects both sides simultaneously.
Pain is most commonly associated with the maxillary and mandibular branches.
The pain is characterized by severe, superficial, sharp, paroxysmal episodes, ranging from moderate to severe intensity.
There are no warning signs before the pain onset, which can feel like electric shocks, pinpricks, cuts, or burning sensations.
Trigeminal neuralgia can be easily triggered by touch, with specific areas known as "trigger points" located on the outer side of the upper lip, the nasal wings, cheeks, and tongue.
Other triggering activities include chewing, swallowing, speaking, brushing teeth, and exposure to cold air.
I recommend that you consult a neurologist for discussion and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Chih-Yi Jiang from Taoyuan cares about you.

Reply Date: 2022/09/19

More Info

Experiencing spasms or a tingling sensation in the right corner of your mouth after consuming spicy foods can be concerning, especially if it has been occurring for over two years. While it may seem like a minor issue, understanding the underlying causes is essential for addressing your symptoms effectively.

Firstly, the spasms you are experiencing could be related to several factors. One possibility is that spicy foods can irritate the mucous membranes in your mouth, leading to localized muscle contractions. Capsaicin, the active component in chili peppers, can stimulate sensory nerves and may cause a temporary sensation of discomfort or spasms in sensitive areas, such as the corners of your mouth. This irritation might not occur every time you eat spicy foods, which could explain why you experience these symptoms sporadically.

Another potential cause could be related to muscle tension or stress. If you tend to clench your jaw or have a habit of tightening the muscles around your mouth, consuming spicy foods might exacerbate this tension, leading to spasms. Additionally, if you are eating quickly or not chewing your food thoroughly, this could also contribute to muscle strain in the jaw and mouth area.

Dehydration or dry mouth can also play a role. Spicy foods can sometimes lead to a sensation of dryness, which might trigger spasms in the muscles around your mouth. Ensuring you stay well-hydrated, especially when consuming spicy foods, could help alleviate this issue.

Moreover, if you have any underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth sensitivity, these could also contribute to the discomfort you feel after eating spicy foods. It would be wise to consult with a dentist to rule out any dental problems that might be causing your symptoms.

Given that your symptoms occur primarily during lunchtime, it might be worth considering your eating habits during that time. Are you eating quickly? Are you under stress during lunch? These factors could contribute to the frequency of your symptoms.
If the spasms continue or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as swelling, pain, or changes in sensation, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to determine if there are any underlying conditions that need to be addressed.

In summary, while the spasms in the right corner of your mouth after eating spicy foods may not seem serious, they could be indicative of various underlying issues, including irritation from spicy foods, muscle tension, dehydration, or dental problems. Monitoring your eating habits, staying hydrated, and consulting with healthcare professionals can help you manage and potentially alleviate these symptoms. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for further evaluation and management.

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