Intermittent Numbness in Right Cheekbone: Causes and When to Seek Help

For the past two to three days, I have been experiencing intermittent tingling in the right cheekbone?

Hello~ Recently, I occasionally experience a tingling sensation near my right cheekbone, which feels somewhat like being punched in that area (it's not painful).
This sensation only occurs on the right side, and whenever I feel the tingling, I can alleviate it by pressing and rubbing my face.
However, if I ignore it, the tingling seems to spread to the surrounding areas of my right face until it resolves on its own (it usually goes away in about half a minute).
I haven't experienced this before.
Could you please tell me what might be happening? Is there a problem that requires seeing a doctor (should I consult a neurologist)? Or will it improve with some rest? I'm a bit worried and wonder if it might be related to my brain or nasopharynx.

Mr. Zheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/04

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Symptoms of the trigeminal nerve on the right side of the face often appear before a cold or during times of fatigue and stress.
Generally, these discomforts improve as the overall health condition improves over a few days.
However, if the symptoms persist or become more pronounced, it is advisable to check for issues such as sinusitis or dental problems affecting the trigeminal nerve.
Rarely, one might need to investigate the possibility of other lesions impacting the trigeminal nerve or brainstem.
For now, it is recommended to rest for a few days, and if there are still concerns, a visit to a neurologist for a thorough evaluation would be appropriate.

Reply Date: 2012/11/04

More Info

Intermittent numbness in the right cheekbone area can be concerning, especially if it is a new symptom for you. The sensation you describe, which feels like a tightness or tingling in the area, could be attributed to several potential causes. Let's explore these possibilities and discuss when it might be necessary to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes
1. Nerve Compression or Irritation: The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) or the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) could be compressed or irritated. This might happen due to muscle tension, inflammation, or even a minor injury. If you have been experiencing stress or tension, it could lead to muscle tightness that affects the nerves in your face.

2. Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction: Issues with the TMJ, which connects your jaw to your skull, can cause referred sensations in the face, including numbness or tingling. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, this could exacerbate the problem.

3. Circulation Issues: Sometimes, reduced blood flow to a specific area can cause numbness. This could be due to posture, such as leaning on your hand or sitting in a way that compresses blood vessels.

4. Neuropathy: Conditions like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies (especially B vitamins) can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which may manifest as numbness or tingling in various parts of the body, including the face.

5. Sinus Issues: Inflammation or infection in the sinuses can lead to pressure changes that might cause sensations of numbness or tingling in the facial area.

6. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also play a role. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which might cause sensations of tingling or numbness in various parts of the body, including the face.

When to Seek Help
While occasional numbness that resolves quickly may not be a cause for alarm, there are specific situations where you should seek medical attention:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the numbness does not resolve quickly or becomes more frequent, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience other symptoms such as weakness, difficulty speaking, vision changes, or severe headaches, you should seek immediate medical attention, as these could indicate a more serious condition like a stroke.

- Impact on Daily Life: If the numbness is affecting your ability to perform daily activities or causing significant anxiety, it is worth discussing with a doctor.

What to Expect at the Doctor's Office
If you decide to see a doctor, a neurologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult. They may perform a physical examination, assess your medical history, and possibly recommend tests such as:
- Imaging Studies: MRI or CT scans to rule out structural issues.

- Nerve Conduction Studies: To evaluate the function of the nerves in your face.

- Blood Tests: To check for underlying conditions like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies.

Conclusion
In summary, while intermittent numbness in the right cheekbone area can be benign, it is essential to monitor the symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. Understanding the potential causes can help alleviate some anxiety, but professional evaluation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, your health is paramount, and it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to new or unexplained symptoms.

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