Sneezing and Numbness: Neurological Symptoms

Experiencing a tingling sensation on the scalp when sneezing?

Recently, whenever I sneeze, I experience a tingling sensation in the back of my head that extends down to my neck and upper back.
What could be causing this?

LING, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/07

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Ling,
You mentioned that "after sneezing, I start to feel numbness in the back of my head extending to my neck and upper back." This temporary numbness may be caused by compression of the cervical nerves at the C4-C5 levels due to abnormal cervical posture.
I wonder if you often engage in activities that excessively strain your cervical spine (such as looking down), which could lead to neck and shoulder pain.
Additionally, abnormalities in structures related to the cervical spinal cord may also contribute to these symptoms.
I recommend increasing your intake of B vitamins and reminding yourself to stand up and stretch every half hour to avoid nerve compression and muscle tightness that could exacerbate your symptoms.
It would be advisable to consult a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist for an examination (such as nerve conduction studies or electromyography) and treatment.
The physician will prescribe medications and rehabilitation therapy based on your condition.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss further.
Wishing you good health, peace, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang, Neurology Department, Taoyuan Hospital / Hualien Hospital

Reply Date: 2024/05/07

More Info

Sneezing is a common reflex that can sometimes lead to unexpected sensations in the body, including numbness or tingling in various areas. In your case, experiencing numbness in the back of your head and neck after sneezing can be concerning, and it’s important to understand the potential underlying causes.

When you sneeze, a sudden increase in pressure occurs in your chest and head. This pressure change can affect the blood flow to the brain and the surrounding areas, potentially leading to temporary sensations of numbness or tingling. This phenomenon is often benign and may simply be a result of the body's response to the forceful expulsion of air during a sneeze.

However, if this numbness is persistent or accompanied by other neurological symptoms, it could indicate an underlying issue that warrants further investigation. Here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:
1. Nerve Compression: Sneezing can cause a sudden jolt that may compress nerves in the neck or upper spine. If you have any pre-existing conditions, such as a herniated disc or cervical spondylosis, the force of a sneeze could exacerbate nerve compression, leading to sensations of numbness or tingling.

2. Cervical Spine Issues: Conditions affecting the cervical spine, such as degenerative disc disease or cervical radiculopathy, can lead to symptoms that are triggered by sudden movements, including sneezing. These conditions can cause irritation or compression of the nerves that exit the spinal column, resulting in numbness or tingling in the neck and head.

3. Vascular Changes: The sudden increase in intrathoracic pressure during a sneeze can affect blood flow. If there are any vascular issues, such as vertebral artery compression, this could lead to transient neurological symptoms.

4. Migraine or Other Headaches: Some individuals experience neurological symptoms, including numbness, as part of a migraine aura. If you have a history of migraines, this could be a potential explanation for your symptoms.

5. Anxiety and Hyperventilation: If you are anxious or hyperventilating, this can lead to sensations of numbness and tingling. The act of sneezing may trigger a stress response, leading to hyperventilation and subsequent symptoms.

Given that your symptoms occur specifically after sneezing, it is advisable to monitor them closely. If the numbness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, vision changes, or severe headaches, it is crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI of the cervical spine, or a neurological evaluation to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while sneezing can lead to temporary sensations of numbness due to pressure changes and nerve compression, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Consulting with a healthcare professional will help determine the underlying cause and appropriate management for your symptoms.

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