Strange sensation on side of head and face

[darth vader]

On occasion i have a strange sensation on the side of my face/head. It usually starts in the scalp above the ear, but extends to my cheek, lower jaw, and today it is in my eyesocket. Basically when i touch this area it feels ultra sensitive and 'tight-skinned'. The condition lasts a few days then goes. Anyone got a reason/name for this?

ps. regardless of my name this is a serious question so no references to helmets please......

[mikewall01]

See your doctor. I had a similar experience and then found out that it was caused by a series of mini strokes.

[katiesara]

I get something similar to that, accompanied by a strange whooshing sound in my ear, am now panicing that I've had a stroke!!

[mikewall01]

Don't panic. Most people suffering from mini strokes are not aware that is what is happening to them and suffer no harsh long term effects. I'm not a doctor, but a stroke sufferer. Medical advice will hopefully minimise the risk of further attacks ... if this is what you've had. See your Doc.

[xyzzyplugh]

It's called neuralgia. It can be associated with TIA but you're likely to get similar lack of sensation down the opposite side of your body to the face ache side as well if it's TIA.
"Sometimes referred to as a "mini-stroke" or "warning stroke," a TIA is caused by a temporary interruption in the blood supply to the brain. But, unlike a stroke, a TIA does not lead to permanent brain damage. While a TIA is usually short-lived, it is likely to occur again if not properly managed and can be a warning of future stroke."

[wildwood]

...and in addition, katiesara, the whooshing sound in your ears could very well be hypertension.
Your body is trying to tell you something so please get it checked out.

[darth vader]

Thanks everyone. It went after 24 hours but the next time it happens i'll see the doctor. Finally, what is TIA?

[mikewall01]

TIA is a Trans Ishaemic Attack. Don't ask me to explain. You are not taking advice seriously. Now is the time to go to your doctor. Don't wait until next time. If you broke a leg would you wait until you broke the other one before seeking medical advice?

[darth vader]

I hear what you're saying mikewall. I've read up on the internet about TIA and Neuralgia and quite frankly i don't think it's either of these but i will see a doctor nethertheless.....

[woodpam]

It could also be a form of migraine, but in any event needs checking out sooner rather than later. Hope you get a happy answer from the doctor.

[ninalondon]

Have you had any teeth removed within the last few years? I get this kind of thing and it's a result of nerve damage after having my wisdom teeth removed.