Pain on only one side of the face can signify various conditions, from muscular problems to neurological or dental disorders. Although it may be a temporary discomfort in some cases, when the pain is intense, recurrent, or accompanied by other symptoms, it is essential to consult a specialist to identify its cause and receive the appropriate treatment.
Neurology specialists can evaluate each case on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the problem is related to the muscles, nerves, or bone and tooth structure.
Common causes of pain on the left side of the face
Pain on one side of the face can be experienced for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common conditions include:
1. Trigeminal neuralgia
This neurological disorder affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensitivity. It manifests with episodes of intense pain, like electric shocks, which can last from seconds to minutes. It is usually triggered by mild stimuli, such as touching the face or chewing.
2. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
Problems in the joint that connects the jaw to the skull can cause pain in the face, accompanied by clicking when opening or closing the mouth, tension in the jaw muscles, and, in some cases, difficulty chewing.
3. Sinusitis
Inflammation of the sinuses can cause facial pain, usually accompanied by nasal congestion, pressure in the eye area, and thick nasal discharge.
4. Dental problems
Dental infections, deep cavities, or abscesses can radiate pain to the face, especially if they affect nearby nerves. In these cases, the pain is often intensified by eating or exposure to extreme temperatures.
5. Muscular or tension pains
Stress and tension can cause muscle contractures in the face and neck, generating discomfort that can be confused with other conditions. In these cases, the pain is usually associated with improper posture or bruxism (teeth grinding).
How do we differentiate between muscular, nervous, or structural pain?
Identifying the source of facial pain is key to effective treatment. Muscular pains are usually related to tension and improve with massage or relaxation. Nerve pain, such as trigeminal neuralgia, is characterized by being sudden, intense, and of short duration. In contrast, structural pains, such as TMJ problems or dental infections, tend to be persistent and worsen with movement or chewing.
When to see a specialist?
Timely attention can make a difference in treatments, so it is important to take into account the following situations:
- The pain becomes intense or recurrent.
- It is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, swelling, loss of sensation, or difficulty moving the jaw.
- It does not improve with common analgesics.
- It interferes with daily activities such as talking, eating, or sleeping.
An accurate diagnosis is essential to establish the best treatment, which may range from medication and physical therapy to dental or surgical procedures in more complex cases.
If you usually present face pain, either on the left or right side, do not hesitate to schedule your appointment with us; we are specialists in neurology. We will perform the corresponding studies to provide you with personalized treatments according to the underlying cause of the discomfort.
