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Published on: 7/14/2026

What are the causes of numbness on the left side of the face?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Left-side facial numbness typically stems from three main causes: trigeminal nerve dysfunction (which controls facial sensation), carotid artery problems that reduce blood flow to the face, or growths near the brain such as epidermoid cysts pressing on nerves.

Common causes of left-side facial numbness:

  • Trigeminal nerve issues — inflammation, compression, or damage disrupting facial sensation
  • Carotid artery problems — reduced blood flow, dissection, or narrowing affecting the face
  • Brain growths — epidermoid cysts or tumors pressing on surrounding nerves

Because these causes range from manageable to serious, identifying the source early matters. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify possible conditions based on your specific symptoms and guide your next steps—whether that means self-care, seeing a primary provider, or seeking urgent evaluation. It takes just minutes and could save you critical time.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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Important Next Steps

Learn likely causes of left facial numbnessSee if your numbness needs urgent careFind out if facial numbness is seriousExplore OTC relief for facial numbnessFind a doctor for facial numbnessDiscover home remedies for facial numbnessUnderstand what causes left facial numbness

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Explanation

Facial numbness, especially on one side, can be due to several reasons. One common cause is problems with the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for sensation in the face. When this nerve is affected, it can lead to numbness or tingling sensations.

Another possible cause is issues with the carotid artery, which supplies blood to the face and brain. If there's a problem with this artery, it can affect the nerves and lead to numbness.

Additionally, growths near the brain, such as epidermoid cysts located in the cerebellopontine angle, can press on nerves and cause facial numbness. These cysts are non-cancerous but can still cause symptoms by putting pressure on surrounding structures.

If you experience facial numbness, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify potential causes and determine whether you should seek immediate medical attention.

(References)

  • Smith JH, & Cutrer FM. (2011). Numbness matters: a clinical review of trigeminal neuropathy. Cephalalgia : an international journal of headache, 21628435.

  • Francis KR, Williams DP, & Troost BT. (1987). Facial numbness and dysesthesia. New features of carotid .... Archives of neurology, 3827688.

  • Muzammil S, & Leong KS. (2009). A case of cerebellopontine angle epidermoid cyst .... Southern medical journal, 19373157.

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