Could an underlying health condition cause one side of my face to tingle?

Tingling (or “pins and needles”) on one side of the face often points to an issue affecting the facial nerves. Several health conditions could be responsible, including:

Trigeminal neuralgia: A chronic nerve condition that can cause tingling, numbness, or sharp pain on one side of the face. Multiple sclerosis (MS): A neurological disorder that can damage nerves and lead to facial tingling or numbness. Bell’s palsy: Caused by inflammation of the facial nerve, this condition may cause weakness, numbness, or tingling on one side. Stroke or mini-stroke (TIA): Sudden, one-sided tingling may be a warning sign and requires urgent medical attention—especially if other symptoms like speech difficulty or weakness are present. Shingles (herpes zoster): This viral infection can affect facial nerves and cause tingling or burning sensations, even before a rash appears. Diabetes or poor circulation: These can lead to peripheral nerve damage, though this more commonly affects the hands and feet. If the tingling is new, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms, a healthcare provider can help identify whether an underlying condition is the cause and recommend the right treatment.