Common Signs and Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuropathy

Dear Ask The Doctor: Recently there is a tingling on my lower left side of my face(around the chin and forward cheek area). What might this be - no recent accidents or dentist visits.

You may be having a trigeminal neuropathy. The trigeminal nerve is largely responsible for the motor and sensory function of the face (e.g. movement of facial muscles from forehead down to jaw, tongue, sensation of the face). This is probably why you are having numbness (or tingling) on the left side of your face. Other signs and symptoms of trigeminal neuropathy includes jaw weakness or deviation. However, electrolyte abnormalities (e.g. low blood calcium levels) can also present with numbness. I suggest you consult a doctor promptly so that serious underlying conditions will be ruled out and the cause of the tingling can be elucidated, hence appropriate interventions may be started. I do hope this helps. Take care always.