Numbness in Left Side of Face Upon Waking
I’m a 26-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 1 inch and weighing 105 pounds. I don’t smoke but occasionally enjoy a drink. My current medications include Zoloft at 125 mg and Wellbutrin at 300 mg. Last night, I went to bed around 11 PM but was awakened at 2 AM by my cat's antics. Upon waking, I realized that the left side of my face felt oddly numb, reminiscent of the sensation you get after a dental numbing shot. The numbness seems to extend from half of my lips and involves my tongue somewhat, radiating towards my ear and up to my nose. I’m not experiencing any additional symptoms such as a headache or toothache. I’m wondering if this warrants a visit to urgent care tomorrow morning or if it can wait until after my work hours. Any advice?
Answers (1)
6/17/2025, 12:40:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
The numbness you're experiencing on the left side of your face upon waking can be concerning, and it's important to consider what might be causing it. While this symptom might not necessarily indicate a serious condition, prompt evaluation is wise, especially given the specific nature of facial numbness and the fact that it was sudden.
Explanation
Facial numbness can arise from various reasons, including:
- Nerve compression: Sleeping in an awkward position might compress a nerve, causing temporary numbness.
- Migraines: Some people experience aura symptoms, including numbness, before or during a migraine, even without a headache.
- Anxiety or panic attacks: These can lead to physical sensations that may feel like numbness.
- Other conditions: Rarely, it can signify something more serious, like a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), especially if it occurs suddenly.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay close attention to any changes. If the numbness persists or returns, or if you notice weakness, difficulty speaking, or other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
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Self-Care:
- Try to avoid sleeping in positions that might put pressure on your head or neck.
- Ensure you're hydrated and that your work environment is comfortable.
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Evaluate the Timing: Since this symptom happened after being disturbed from sleep, if the numbness does not resolve soon or if it worsens, it would be best to go to urgent care at your earliest opportunity.
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Document Your Symptoms: Take note of when the numbness occurs, how long it lasts, and any activities leading up to it, which can be helpful for your healthcare provider.
It's understandable to feel anxious about these symptoms, but being proactive will help ensure that you receive the appropriate care. Please take care of yourself, and don't hesitate to seek help if needed.
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