Tingling in the Side of the Face After Exercise

Tingling in the Side of the Face After Exercise
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There is no way to know if tingling on the face is a problem that's particular to exercise. Tingling, in general, is an abnormal sensation that could be a mild reaction to a trigger or a symptom of an illness. If the tingling occurs often, or is accompanied by numbness, make sure to visit your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Skin Condition

When you exercise, your body temperature increases. The muscles need more oxygen and the heart pumps faster to accommodate. Therefore, your tingling may simply be due to flushing. If the skin in that area is dry, an increase in temperature can be slightly irritating and produce tingling. Consider whether the tingling is truly only on one side of your face. Maybe it starts on one side, but then radiates outward as your temperature rises. Check the skin to see if you have a blemish or rash that may be irritated by sweat.

Allergy

An external trigger could be causing a mild allergic reaction that feels like tingling. For example, if your hair tends to trickle down on that side of the face, or maybe you brush against the skin with cloth or the surface of a wrist weight. In this case, the fact that you're exercising could be just a coincidence. Look at the skin after you work out for signs of redness, hives or an allergic rash. Avoid letting anything touch your face while exercising, then see if the condition improves. The tingling may also be a warning sign of exercise-induced anaphylaxis, a potentially dangerous allergic reaction triggered by exercise. If you feel itchy, have hives or feel tightening in your throat, seek immediate emergency medical help. If you have any further symptoms that may indicate an allergy, such as itchy eyes or congestion, avoid exercise until you see your doctor.

Preexisting Medical Condition

The tingling may be secondary to a preexisting medical problem. Diabetes, for example, can cause damage to the nerves, or neuropathy. If you are being treated for any condition, or if you take medication regularly, talk to your doctor about the tingling to see if the two problems may be related.

Transient Ischemic Attack

Tingling or numbness anywhere in the body can also be caused by transient ischemic attack, or TIA, a mini-stroke that only last a few minutes. Exercise on its own does not necessarily cause a TIA, but the increase in blood flow during exercise may be triggering it. A TIA needs to be evaluated by a doctor, as it can often be a sign of an impending stroke. Other symptoms of a TIA include weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, vision problems or lack of coordination. If you smoke, have high blood pressure, are overweight or just concerned, consult your doctor to rule out a TIA.

References

Article reviewed by Roman Tsivkin Last updated on: Feb 28, 2011

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