Tingling in the head can happen due to stress, anxiety, migraines, sinusitis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis or head injuries, for example. The tingling sensation in the head occurs due to compression of a nerve or lack of blood to some region of the head, leading to the symptom.
It is important that a doctor is consulted when tingling in the head lasts more than 3 days and is accompanied by other symptoms such as tingling in other parts of the body, total or partial paralysis of the face, general malaise, dizziness and muscle weakness, for example.
Therefore, the general practitioner or neurologist may recommend tests to identify the cause of the tingling, such as MRI or tomography of the head and face, so that the most appropriate treatment can be initiated.
Main causes
The main causes of tingling in the head are:
1. Migraine
A migraine is a type of intense headache that usually lasts for hours or days, and can cause a tingling sensation in the head due to the constant, pulsating pain. In addition to the headache, migraines can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, general malaise, nausea and vomiting.
What to do: The ideal is to reduce the consumption of foods that can worsen symptoms, such as caffeine, chocolate or alcoholic beverages, in addition to exercising regularly and getting a good night’s sleep and rest. However, it may be necessary to use medication to treat migraines, and it is advisable to consult a neurologist to advise on the best treatment. Learn more about migraine treatments.
2. Stress and anxiety
Episodes of anxiety attacks cause the body to release hormones such as cortisol, known as the stress hormone, and this excessive release can cause an increase in brain activity, increasing blood flow in the region, which can lead to a tingling sensation. on the head and other parts of the body.
What to do: In this case, it is possible to alleviate the tingling sensation in the head through techniques and activities that help you relax, such as getting a good night’s sleep, practicing physical activity regularly and performing breathing control exercises. See 5 natural remedies to combat stress.
3. Sinusitis
Sinusitis is an inflammatory process of the nasal mucosa and sinuses that leads to the accumulation of fluid in the cavities and, as a result, compresses the nerves in the facial region, which can cause a tingling sensation in the face. In addition to tingling, sinusitis can also cause other symptoms such as a blocked nose, runny nose and headaches. Learn about other symptoms of sinusitis.
What to do: To alleviate the discomfort caused by sinusitis, you can wash your nose with saline solution, which helps to reduce the amount of accumulated mucus. However, the ideal is to consult a family doctor or otolaryngologist, as it may be necessary, in some cases, to use antibiotics and/or corticosteroids to treat the infection.
4. Head injuries
When an injury or trauma occurs to the head, nerves in the region or blood flow may be compromised and, when this happens, a tingling sensation may appear in the head.
What to do: In case of injury or trauma, it is essential to seek medical help as soon as possible. The doctor will assess the situation and take the necessary measures, such as ordering imaging tests, and starting treatment according to the cause and symptoms presented.
5. Teeth problems
Dental surgeries to remove or implant teeth can cause tingling sensations, resulting from the anesthesia used or possible damage to facial nerves. Furthermore, other problems with the teeth, such as the presence of dental abscesses, can also cause inflammation of the tissues and nerves, leading to a tingling sensation.
What to do: Usually the tingling sensation is temporary. If it does not improve within a few hours, it is recommended to see a dentist who can prescribe the use of anti-inflammatories to reduce the pain and inflammation present, thus reducing the discomfort.
6. Diabetes
A tingling sensation in the head can also be a sign of decompensated diabetes, which is when diabetes is not treated properly. This tingling is the result of nerve damage, with tingling sensations being more common in the extremities of the body, such as feet and hands. However, it is possible for nerve damage to occur in the face and head.
Among the main symptoms of diabetes are weight loss, feelings of excessive thirst, excessive urination and blurred vision. Learn about other symptoms of diabetes.
What to do: dietary re-education is recommended, reducing the consumption of carbohydrates and fats, in addition to carrying out regular physical activity and correct use of medications prescribed by the general practitioner or endocrinologist, who can also request blood and urine tests to evaluate possible complications of the disease, and thus carrying out more targeted treatment.
7. Multiple sclerosis
The sensation of tingling and numbness is one of the symptoms present in multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects the nervous system. Along with tingling, other symptoms may be present such as muscle weakness, lack of coordination of movements, memory loss and dizziness. Understand better how to identify multiple sclerosis.
What to do: If you suspect multiple sclerosis, the ideal is to see a neurologist, who can order tests to make an accurate diagnosis and thus begin the most appropriate treatment.
