Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Swelling And Numbness In Jaw?
Question: For the past four years, I have had a swelling and numbness occur in my right or left jaw that can last for two to four days and without a pattern. The first sign is inside my mouth with a numbness and tingling in the gum line, cheek or tongue. Within two to three hours, my face, sometimes my tongue and sometimes my throat are numb and swelling. This does not occur after eating and can occur when I am awake or asleep. I have been taking Benadryl for this and while it reduces the time line and reduces the swelling, Benadryl does not solve it instantly. I will say that I have asthma and severe allergies, but usually I am very aware as to what I have eaten and where I am. There is no discernible pattern to the occurrence.
Brief Answer:
Yes this is rare
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Yes this is an odd occurrence, quite rare.
The possible reasons which I can think are::
*This is related to the part of the trigeminal nerve, the distribution is, as well mentioned by you. This occurs as the nerve is stimulated for that period only.
This explains the non-pattern and occurrence for 3 to 4 days.
*Another possible reason can be related to an allergy (and you are a known asthmatic) wherein one gets deposits of blood cells called eosinophils and gives this atypical presentation you have. That is why you are getting results with Benedryl.
Do you ever take steroids. Please discuss with your Doctor for a trial with Deflaxacort ( it is safe in hypertension and helps in asthma also and taking for 1 to 3 weeks in reducing doses have minimal or no side effects) If this trial helps you, it is diagnostic and therapeutic too.
regards,
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
