Tingling in the head, or paresthesia of the head, can be caused by a variety of conditions, the most common being diabetes, migraines, or a cold and sinus infection. Head injuries and any kind of nerve damage to the head can also cause tingling. Certain prescription medications or illegal drugs can also cause this feeling.
Paresthesia is usually described as a feeling of pins and needles, a tingling sensation, a burning sensation, or as partial numbness in a certain area of the body. Nerve damage is often the cause of this type of sensation. Nerve entrapment or pressure can cause these feelings. Sensations that recur or are difficult to treat may indicate conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Diabetes has been shown to cause several different types of nerve disorders. These disorders usually occur in patients who have lived with diabetes for many years and have not controlled their blood sugar levels very well. Some autoimmune factors can also contribute to the development of nerve disorders. Damaged nerves caused by these disorders can cause a tingling, pain, or burning sensation in certain areas of the body, including the head.
Tingling in the head can also be caused by congestion related to a cold or sinus infection, or it can occur as a symptom of a migraine. Pressure resulting from a sinus infection or congestion from a cold or flu can put pressure on the cranial nerves and cause tingling in the head. Changes in blood flow that occur during a migraine attack can also lead to this type of paresthesia.
Any type of trauma or injury can lead to nerve damage in a person. If these nerves are close to the head, such as those in the neck, it can cause tingling in the head. Nerves can also be damaged due to infection in the body. A doctor will usually take a thorough history and run various tests to determine the exact cause of the tingling sensation.
Head tingling can also occur as a side effect of prescription medications. If a patient experiences this side effect and it is troublesome, he should seek medical attention immediately, as tingling may be a sign of a dangerous reaction to his medication. Your doctor may decide to change the medicine or reduce the amount you take.
The tingling sensation can also result as a side effect of an illegal drug. Elimination of these medications will usually stop the tingling in your head. Drug rehab centers can be helpful for those who cannot stop using the illegal drug on their own.