Published on: 5/30/2025
What might cause slight numbness on the right side of my face?
Slight numbness on one side of the face can be caused by issues with the trigeminal nerve or problems related to the carotid artery. Surgery around the cranial area might also lead to similar symptoms.
Explanation
Feeling numbness on the right side of your face can be concerning, and there are a few possible reasons based on the medical literature provided.
Trigeminal Neuropathy: The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensation in your face. If this nerve is affected, possibly by conditions detailed in the review by Smith and Cutrer, it can lead to numbness or tingling sensations.
Carotid Artery Issues: According to Francis, Williams, and Troost, changes or problems with the carotid artery can also result in facial numbness. This is because the blood supply to the nerves and tissues in the face may be affected.
Post-Surgical Complications: Westerlund and colleagues highlight that surgeries involving the cranial area can sometimes lead to complications affecting the trigeminal nerve, resulting in numbness.
If these symptoms persist, it is important to discuss them with a healthcare provider who can offer guidance and possibly conduct further investigations to determine the exact cause.
(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.
- Westerlund U, Linderoth B, & Mathiesen T. (2012). Trigeminal complications arising after surgery of cranial .... Neurosurgical review, 22006092.
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