Most of us have experienced a tingling sensation in the head at one time or another. For most, it’s a disconcerting, but harmless experience. However, if you often feel a tingling sensation in the head, you may want to investigate the cause.
Paresthesia
Paresthesia, also known as transient or persistent paresthesia, is the clinical term for the tingling sensation. It can have myriad causes. While some are nothing to be concerned about, others may signify serious medical issues and should be addressed immediately.
Transient Paresthesia
As the name suggests, transient paresthesia is temporary. For example, you might feel a pins-and-needles sensation in your leg if you’ve been sitting in one position for too long. When you stretch or move your leg, the tingling sensation fades away.
Persistent Paresthesia
Persistent paresthesia occurs when the tingling sensation persists. It should be investigated because it could be related to a medical condition. While these conditions are usually minor, more serious causes like poor circulation or nerve damage may lead to chronic paresthesia.
Symptoms of Paresthesia
What does paresthesia feel like? The tingling, prickling, or numbness associated with paresthesia can be brief or persistent. It can occur in various parts of the body. While it might not be painful, the sensation can be worrying, leaving those affected feeling uncertain and concerned about the underlying cause.
The sensations vary by patient, but most people experience one or more of the following:
- Numbness
- Pins-and-needles
- Burning
Causes of Paresthesia
Paresthesia is primarily caused by pressure on the nerves. Often, simply relieving the pressure eliminates the symptoms – moving a leg that’s “fallen asleep” is a good example.
Chronic paresthesia may indicate nerve damage related to:
Head Injury
If you’ve experienced a head injury, there may be damage to the nerves that convey facial sensations. This is especially serious if your head injury affected the base of your skull, as this can lead to brain nerve damage.
Diabetes
You’re probably aware that diabetes is a condition where the body doesn’t properly manage its blood sugar levels – but did you know it can cause nerve damage? Untreated diabetes can lead to numbness in the limbs as well as in the head.
Migraines
Although migraines are a type of headache, they’re often accompanied by diverse and debilitating symptoms, like:
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Temporary loss of vision
- Tingling that typically occurs just before the “headache” hits
Sinusitis and Colds
Two of the most common symptoms of sinusitis (a sinus infection) and colds are congestion and sinus inflammation. Both can put pressure on the facial nerves, creating a tingling sensation.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by seizures. There are many kinds of seizures, most of which are directly related to the nervous system. Simple partial seizures and other specific types may cause facial and head tingling.
Autoimmune Disorders
A more recently recognized cause of paresthesia is autoimmune disorders. These are conditions where the body’s immune system attacks muscle and connective tissues, blood vessels, and organs. This can lead to a long list of symptoms.
Paresthesia is a common symptom among several autoimmune disorders:
- Lupus
- Sjögren Syndrome
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
Viral and Bacterial Infections
Some viral and bacterial infections can affect the nervous system. Many of these are dangerous or can lead to chronic conditions if not quickly treated.
Numbness or tingling across the neck, face, and head may be a sign of the following:
- Lyme Disease
- HIV
- Shingles
- Hepatitis C
- Encephalitis
Neurodegenerative Conditions
As the name suggests, neurodegenerative conditions cause damage and eventual loss of neurons. Paresthesia is associated with the following conditions:
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s
- Parkinson’s
Side Effects of Medications
Some medications may cause numbness, a sensation of “electric shocks,” or tingling as a side effect. Anticonvulsants and chemotherapy drugs are common examples.
Treating Paresthesia
It’s important to note that the specific treatment plan for paresthesia will depend on the underlying cause, the severity of the symptoms, and your overall health. Our experienced team will work with you to develop a personalized approach that addresses your unique needs and concerns.
[Learn More About Headache Treatments]Preventing Paresthesia
Any treatment plan for paresthesia will include preventative steps, if possible. For example, if your paresthesia is a result of migraines or epilepsy, we can help you figure out the triggers to avoid. In other cases, like diabetes, properly managing the condition can prevent tingling and numbness altogether.
If you’re experiencing chronic paresthesia, it could indicate a health issue that needs to be addressed. The professional team at the National Headache Institute is dedicated to helping every patient with a combination of skill, experience, and the latest techniques.
The Road to Recovery
Paresthesia can be a perplexing and sometimes disconcerting condition, but with the right approach and support, you can find relief and regain a sense of comfort and control. By understanding the potential causes, exploring the various treatment options, and surrounding yourself with an educated support network, we can help you take proactive steps towards managing your paresthesia and reclaiming your quality of life.
Remember, your journey is unique. With patience, persistence, and the guidance of our healthcare professionals, you can navigate the path to a healthier, more positive tomorrow. We can help you embrace the road to recovery and get the help and resources you need.
Enjoy Relief From Headache Pain
Stop suffering from headache pain with the National Headache Institute. We’ll identify your headache type and personalize a lasting treatment plan to free you of headache pain.
Call us for more information at (713) 467-4082, or contact us online.
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