What causes numbness throughout the body and in the face?

Jan 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, whole-body numbness including facial numbness may be caused by poor posture, impaired blood circulation, vitamin B12 deficiency, multiple sclerosis, cervical spondylosis, or other related conditions. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment measures and medication. When symptoms occur, it is important to immediately find a safe and comfortable place to sit or lie down and rest, in order to avoid falling and sustaining accidental injuries.

Generally,全身 numbness including facial numbness may be caused by poor posture, impaired blood circulation, vitamin B12 deficiency, multiple sclerosis, cervical spondylosis, and other reasons. Symptomatic management through general treatment and medication might be needed. If discomfort persists, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

  

1. Poor Posture

Maintaining incorrect posture for prolonged periods, such as looking down at a phone or computer for extended durations or resting with the head bent over a desk, may lead to tension in the neck and facial muscles, and impaired blood circulation, thereby causing numbness in the face and throughout the body. Usually, symptoms can be relieved by moderate rest, changing posture, and appropriate physical activity.

2. Impaired Blood Circulation

Prolonged maintenance of the same posture or external pressure might lead to poor blood circulation, causing numbness in areas of the body including the face, possibly accompanied by local swelling and pain. It is recommended to change posture and engage in appropriate physical activity to promote blood circulation.

3. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining nervous system health. A deficiency can damage nerve myelin sheaths and affect nerve conduction, resulting in a sensation of numbness. Additional symptoms might include fatigue, anemia, and decreased cognitive function. It is recommended to take medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B12 tablets, or vitamin B12 injections under medical guidance.

4. Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease primarily caused by a combination of autoimmune reactions, viral infections, genetic factors, and others. The immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, damaging its integrity and interfering with nerve signal transmission, leading to whole-body numbness. It may also be accompanied by vision problems, muscle weakness, and balance disorders. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as recombinant human interferon beta-1b for injection, glatiramer acetate injection, or dimethyl fumarate enteric-coated capsules to alleviate symptoms.

5. Cervical Spondylosis

Chronic strain and degeneration of the cervical spine may lead to cervical spondylosis. Herniated discs or bone spurs may compress spinal nerve roots, disrupting nerve signal transmission and causing numbness in the face and other body areas. Symptoms may also include neck pain, discomfort in the shoulders and back, and arm numbness. It is recommended to use medications such as aceclofenac tablets, Jingfukang granules, and mecobalamin tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

When experiencing symptoms of全身 numbness including facial numbness, immediately find a safe and comfortable place to sit or lie down and rest to avoid falling and sustaining accidental injuries.