Facial Numbness After Drinking: Potential Neurological Issues

Facial numbness after drinking alcohol?

Hello, my friend is a 21-year-old male.
Whenever he drinks alcohol (which is not often and only in small amounts) or when the weather is extremely cold, he experiences numbness in his cheeks, tightness in his neck, and after a while, his calves start to swell and hurt.
The next day, his legs feel sore, swollen, and painful.
A traditional Chinese medicine practitioner suggested that he might have periodontal disease, which could lead to facial nerve paralysis and subsequently affect the spine, causing leg numbness.
Since he has not yet seen a dentist to check for periodontal disease, I would like to ask: 1.
Is there a connection between periodontal disease and facial nerve paralysis? 2.
Can facial nerve paralysis truly affect the spine and cause leg numbness? 3.
How can facial nerve paralysis be prevented, and what is its severity? Thank you!

Sheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/17

Dr. Lai Lunxiang reply Neurology

Based on your description, your symptoms are not indicative of facial nerve paralysis, but rather may suggest a deficiency in B vitamins.
1.
If periodontal disease is very severe (extremely severe) and there are ulcerations, it may potentially affect the facial nerve.
2.
The relationship between facial nerve paralysis and the spine is not something I have encountered in traditional Western medicine.
3.
There are no effective, reliable preventive measures; the severity depends on the underlying cause (1.
simple viral infection 2.
trauma 3.
compression of the facial nerve, such as from a tumor or vascular issues...).

Reply Date: 2004/05/17

More Info

Facial numbness and neurological symptoms can be concerning, especially when they occur after drinking alcohol or in response to cold weather. Your friend's symptoms—facial numbness, neck tightness, and subsequent leg pain—warrant a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying neurological issues. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Is there a connection between periodontal disease and facial nerve paralysis?
Periodontal disease, particularly in its advanced stages, can lead to systemic inflammation and may have indirect effects on various bodily systems. While there is no direct causal relationship established between periodontal disease and facial nerve paralysis (Bell's palsy), severe infections in the oral cavity can potentially lead to complications that might affect nearby structures, including the facial nerve. However, this is relatively rare. It is essential for your friend to see a dentist to evaluate for periodontal disease, as untreated dental issues can lead to more severe health problems.

2. Can facial nerve paralysis truly affect the spine and cause leg numbness?
The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) primarily controls the muscles of facial expression and does not have a direct anatomical relationship with the spinal cord or lower extremities. Therefore, facial nerve paralysis itself should not directly cause spinal issues or leg numbness. However, if your friend is experiencing widespread neurological symptoms, it may indicate a more systemic issue, such as a neurological disorder or a vitamin deficiency (like B12), which can affect multiple areas of the body. It is crucial to consult a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation.

3. How can facial nerve paralysis be prevented, and what is its severity?
Prevention of facial nerve paralysis is not straightforward, as many cases are idiopathic (of unknown origin). However, maintaining overall health through a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding known triggers (like extreme cold) may help. Additionally, addressing any dental issues promptly can reduce the risk of complications. The severity of facial nerve paralysis can vary widely; some individuals recover fully within weeks, while others may experience long-term effects. Factors influencing recovery include the underlying cause, the promptness of treatment, and individual health conditions.

In summary, your friend's symptoms should not be dismissed, and a multidisciplinary approach involving a dentist, neurologist, and possibly other specialists is recommended. They should seek medical attention to explore the underlying causes of their symptoms, including potential neurological evaluations and dental assessments. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and help prevent further complications.

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