Allergy and Tingling in the Face

Millions of people suffer from allergies. The triggers for an allergy attack are as various as the symptoms. A tingling sensation in the face might be the result of an allergic reaction. On the other hand, facial tingling might indicate a more serious medication condition. Your doctor can make the proper determination.

Allergy Causes

An allergy is the result of your immune system responding to a substance that is normally harmless. Your body sets in motion a chain of events that leads to a variety of usually minor symptoms. Doctors think that a predisposition to allergies may be genetically inherited. Children are also more likely to experience allergies, but these may diminish by adulthood. Having one type of allergy also increases the chance that you will develop other allergies. Doctors have realized that allergies and asthma are closely related conditions, and many people struggle with both conditions simultaneously.

Allergy Symptoms

Puffy and Itchy Face from Allergies

Learn More

Allergies to airborne substances typically lead to nasal, sinus and respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, coughing and runny nose. A rash or annoying itch may result from a contact allergy, while stomach ache or nausea point toward an ingested allergen. Symptoms of a food allergy include tingling or swelling of the mouth and lips. Insect stings, on the other hand, lead to pain, itching and swelling, either isolated to the site of the sting or all over the body.

More Severe Allergies

Some people suffer from severe allergic reactions requiring medication or emergency treatment. A systemic reaction known as anaphylaxis may lead to death if it is not quickly counteracted. Tingling and numbness in the face are both signs of a potentially dangerous allergy 4. Food and insect stings are the most common causes of anaphylaxis, although certain medications have also caused the condition in allergic individuals. Tingling may precede or accompany lightheaded sensations, shortness of breath and unconsciousness.

Other Causes of Facial Tingling

Allergy & Itchy Hands and Feet

Learn More

Several medical conditions can result in tingling or numbness in the face or elsewhere on the body 4. Nerve damage and migraine headaches are all possible sources of tingling. One of the potential causes of facial tingling is a restricted blood supply. Frostbite, for example, kills cells and cuts off blood to exposed skin. In the worst-case scenario, facial tingling may indicate a stroke or imminent seizure. Unexplained numbness or tingling, no matter how minor, should be brought to the attention of your doctor 4.