Published on: 5/30/2025
What could be the reason for numbness in one side of my face?
Numbness on one side of the face might be due to trigeminal neuropathy, issues with the carotid artery, or a small stroke in the brain. It's important to talk to a doctor to find out what's going on.
Explanation
Feeling numb on one side of your face can happen for different reasons. One possible cause is trigeminal neuropathy, which affects a nerve in your face. This nerve problem can make parts of your face feel numb or tingly. Another possible reason is problems with the carotid artery, which is a big blood vessel in your neck. If this artery has issues, it might cause numbness or strange feelings in your face.
Another serious cause can be a small stroke in the brain, known as a lacunar pontine ischemic stroke. This type of stroke can make one side of your face feel numb. It happens when a small blood vessel in the brain gets blocked.
If you notice numbness in your face, it's important to see a doctor. They can help figure out what's causing it and what to do next. Remember, these are just some possibilities, and a doctor can provide the best advice.
(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.
- Brigo F, Tomelleri G, Bovi P, & Bovi T. (2012). Hemiparesthesias in lacunar pontine ischemic stroke. Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 21910003.
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