What causes tingling sensation on the side of head?

A tingling sensation on the side of the head can have several potential causes. Here are some common causes:

1. Trigeminal Neuralgia: This is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which provides sensation to the face, including the side of the head. It can cause sudden, intense, stabbing, or burning pain that feels like an electric shock.

2. Occipital Neuralgia: Similar to trigeminal neuralgia, occipital neuralgia affects the occipital nerves that run from the upper neck to the back of the head. It can lead to a tingling, burning, or aching sensation on one side of the head.

3. Cervicogenic Headache: This type of headache originates from the cervical spine (neck) and can cause referred pain to the side of the head. Additional symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, and dizziness.

4. Temporal Arteritis (Giant Cell Arteritis): This is a condition characterized by inflammation of the temporal arteries on the side of the head. It can cause headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, and vision problems.

5. Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, located around the nasal passages and forehead, can cause pressure and discomfort on the side of the head.

6. Migraine: Migraines are often associated with intense, throbbing headaches on one side of the head. Tingling sensations or numbness can sometimes accompany migraines before or during the headache phase.

7. Post-Herpetic Neuralgia: This is a complication of the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox) and can occur years after the initial infection. It can cause persistent pain, including a tingling sensation, in the affected area, which may include the side of the head.

8. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): TIAs are temporary disruptions of blood flow to the brain and are often considered "warning strokes." They can cause various symptoms, including tingling or numbness on one side of the body, including the head.

9. Brain Tumors: In rare cases, a tingling sensation on the side of the head may be a symptom of a brain tumor, especially if accompanied by other neurological signs or symptoms.

If you experience a sudden onset of a tingling sensation on the side of your head, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like severe headache, vision changes, or neurological deficits, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional can help determine the cause of the tingling sensation and recommend appropriate treatment.