Persisting Tingling Sensation on Upper Lip Intensifying
I’m a 24-year-old female residing in British Columbia. I am currently on Lolo birth control as prescribed and also take a range of supplements including a probiotic, 200mg of magnesium bisglycinate, 50mg of zinc (on my doctor’s advice), and 1000mg of odourless garlic daily. In 2025, I was diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa and suffered a ruptured disc in my lower back the previous year. I have experienced hives and rashes after exposure to items like oranges, matches, and various medical adhesives, although no formal allergies have been diagnosed. I do not consume alcohol, use drugs, or smoke. Recently, I have deliberately lost around five pounds over the past two months. Unfortunately, I do not have a family doctor, leaving me with the options of seeking emergency care either locally or a two-hour drive away. For the past several years, I've occasionally felt what resembles a single hair brushing against my upper lip, an occurrence that used to happen approximately once every two months. However, about a week ago, this feeling started to escalate. I found myself frequently rubbing my face in an attempt to address the sensation of hair around my mouth, yet there was never anything there. In the past week, the frequency of this feeling has increased dramatically, shifting from once an hour to nearly constant. It manifests as a buzzing, tingling, and twitching sensation primarily on the upper right side of my lip. On particularly intense days, I also feel it creeping to the tip of my nose, almost as if something is gliding diagonally across my face. It feels akin to my lip wanting to spasm or twitch, yet there is no visible movement. This situation is driving me to the brink of frustration. Should I consider going to the emergency room? Given the current shortage of doctors, I’m bracing for a lengthy wait in triage, and I’m reluctant to take up their time if there's no solution they can provide. I’m wondering what steps I should take next, as I fear the persistent sensation may lead to a public emotional breakdown if it continues unabated.
Answers (1)
2/13/2026, 4:10:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
The sensations you are experiencing on your upper lip can be distressing, especially when they intensify. While I understand your reluctance to seek emergency care, it's important to address these symptoms carefully, considering your medical history and current circumstances.
Explanation
Tingling or buzzing sensations in the face can have various causes, including:
- Nerve Irritation: This can be due to stress, anxiety, or changes in your body, such as weight loss, which may impact your overall well-being or nerve health.
- Skin Sensitivity: Given your history of hives and skin reactions, increased sensitivity or irritability of the skin and nerve endings could play a role.
- Migraine or Other Neurological Conditions: Sometimes, these sensations may accompany migraines or other less common neurological phenomena.
- Stress or Anxiety: Since you've mentioned frustration, it’s possible these feelings could be exacerbated by stress or anxiety, particularly if you feel overwhelmed by your health.
Recommended Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when these sensations occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers (e.g., stress levels, certain activities). This can help identify patterns.
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Stress Management: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle physical activity like yoga. Reducing stress can help alleviate symptoms.
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Avoid Irritants: For now, try to avoid any known irritants or potential triggers, whether foods or environmental factors, until you have more clarity on the sensations.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you’re consuming a balanced diet and staying well-hydrated, which may support your overall health.
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Seek Medical Advice: Since the symptoms have escalated and are affecting your well-being, I recommend considering a visit to an urgent care clinic instead of the emergency room if you prefer to avoid long waits. Alternatively, look for telehealth services in your area, where you can speak to a healthcare professional without the stress of in-person visits.
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Prepare for Consultation: If you do seek medical advice, be ready to discuss the specifics of your symptoms, your health history, and any concerns you have about your medication or supplements.
Final Thoughts
It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated and concerned about persistent symptoms. While it might seem daunting to seek help, addressing your symptoms promptly can lead to better management and relief. Remember, you're not alone in this, and assistance is available. If you start feeling particularly overwhelmed or if new symptoms arise, please prioritize seeking medical guidance.
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