Symptom 10: Facial Numbness or Paralysis
Facial numbness or paralysis is a symptom that can understandably cause considerable distress. It’s a potential symptom of head and neck cancer, particularly nasopharyngeal cancer, which affects the part of the throat that connects the back of the nose to the back of the mouth. This area is in close proximity to nerves that control sensation and movement in the face, which explains why cancer in this region can result in facial numbness or paralysis.
This symptom can manifest in various ways. You might experience a complete loss of feeling in a part of your face or a decreased ability to move your facial muscles. This could affect simple tasks like blinking, smiling, or eating. In some cases, it might also result in a change in your sense of taste or cause you to have difficulty speaking.
It’s important to note that facial numbness or paralysis isn’t exclusive to head and neck cancer. It could be caused by a range of other conditions, including Bell’s palsy, a stroke, or Lyme disease. However, if you experience this symptom, especially in conjunction with others on this list, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. (10)
