Facial Numbness

by Carol K.
(Scottish Borders)

I am 59 yrs old and believe I am now post menopausal. for the last year i have had what has been diagnosed as Hemi-plegic Migraine. Now taking 40 mgs amitriptyline as a preventative and it is effective in blocking the headaches.

Why though do I have face prickling, numbing over areas of face and tongue, (rather like a dentists anesthetic when you have a filling) almost every day and sometimes many times a day?? My GP cannot help and seems to have no explanation. As I am a full time care giver (solo) to my learning disabled son, I am anxious over an increased stroke risk.

Can you advise?

Carol K.

Answer:

Hi Carol,

You do not mention whether or not your doctor has ordered any studies. If not I would recommend getting an MRI with contrast to rule out any pathologies that could be causing this problem.

Episodic numbness and tingling on the face can have several causes.

With a lifestyle such as yours (single mom, caregiver= stress!) anxiety may play a role, especially with a history of migraine. Take a look at the anxiety symptoms to see if this fits you.

If not, then other things should be considered. Although TIA's can cause tingling and numbness, I doubt that you are having these all day long. TIA's are single events.

Hypocalcemia (low calcium) can cause these symptoms as can lack of vitamin B12. Your doctor can test for these.

One last thing to consider, since you live in Scotland or very near, is MS or multiple sclerosis. I am not try to frighten you as you are a little outside the age range, but MS is prevalent in Scotland. Again, an MRI could help here.

Finally, if you have not seen a neurologist, I would suggest finding one. A specialist such as this could probably give you a more definitive diagnosis.

Good luck!
Mary Kay Betz MS RPA-C