What Causes Numbness And Tingling Sensation In The Lower Lip?

Posted on Sat, 18 Mar 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 18 Mar 2017 Answered on

Tue, 11 Apr 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : Slight numbness tingling in center bottom lip. Nothing else.
I do have type 2 diabetes.

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Not a warning symptom of stroke.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

However as a neurologist dealing mainly with stroke I would say that when it comes to an issue such as stroke that tingling feeling is not a typical symptom at all. That limited location doesn't correspond to a brain lesion. I do not think that you should worry about stroke or any other type of brain lesion.

The most likely possibility would be damage to the small peripheral nerve covering that area, probably due to diabetes. Doesn't require any treatment apart from diabetes control. Another common possibility would be anxiety which can also manifest with tingling of the lips.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Olsi Taka (7 minutes later)

Thanks.
I do have a non-malignant brain tumor doctor said to leave alone.
I guess diabetes is the logical explanation. At this moment numbness went away.
Just like when you go to a dentist, pain suddenly goes away.

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (47 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Tumor not responsible.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for that additional information. I do not think the tumor is the cause, while it can cause abnormal sensations they involve a much wider area than only the lower lip, usually half of the body and face.

The main hypotheses remain the same as in my previous answer, the fact it went away just like at the dentist would go more with the anxiety hypothesis actually.

Let me know if I can further assist you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar