Periodic Facial/Head Numbness

Hello.  I am 33 years old, and have recently had my yearly exam, all seems well.  I had some PVC heart concerns, to which a cardiolgogist monitored me and all is well, I've had no further problems.Recent Echo confirmed no problems.  I've always had an ocassional ringing in the ears, usually one ear that is cleared by swallowing.  Over the past few days I've had to very brief instances of head or facial numbness.  One was at the back of my neck, right where I usually pull my hair up - it was gone very quickly.  The other was two days later, a very brief numbness on my face, no paralysis - just a numb feeling.  Today I experience what sounds like a rushing of fluid in my ear, and it was quickly gone.  I've had no dizziness or imbalance problems.  I do have a lot of allergies and sinus infections.  I've had previous CT scans and MRI's of my brain due my mother dying from a brain anneurysm.  All was fine - those was within the past 3 to 4 years.  Could this be TMJ or allergies?  I've had no other symptoms and feel fine otherwise - just congested a lot.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

TMJ may be possible.  I would also consider early migraine headaches which can manifest as facial numbness.  Other possibilities include any type of musculoskeletal neck or facial spasm.  You note that CT scans and MRI's were normal.  

You may also want to consider a formal neurology consult - the consideration of an MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) can be considered if this wasn't done with the MRI.  

If the neurology evaluation is not revealing, an ENT consult can be considered to evaluate for any sinus pathology which may contribute to the symptoms.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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