Numbness in the scalp has quite a few causes, including some very surprising ones – as well as multiple sclerosis.
However, if your entire scalp is numb, and you have MS, there is at least one cause of this numbness that’s not related to the MS.
“MS does not generally cause a completely numb scalp because the nerves that supply the scalp come from multiple different parts of the nervous system,” says Mitzi J. Williams, MD, clinical neurologist with Morehouse School of Medicine, an MS specialist and clinical advisor for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
“The nerves that supply the posterior [back] portion of the scalp are in the spinal cord, and the nerves that supply the frontal part of the scalp originate from the brain.
“It is not likely that both of these areas would be affected on both sides to cause numbness of the complete scalp.”
If your whole scalp is numb and you’ve been diagnosed with MS, then here are some other causes of a numb or tingling sensation involving the scalp:
• Alcohol
• Anxiety
• Concussion
• Diabetes
• Drugs (e.g., illegal, chemotherapy)
• Headaches
• Infections
• Sinus conditions
• Sleep position
• Unknown
Why Drinking May Cause a Numb Scalp
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Drinking alcohol can cause a numb scalp for several reasons.
First, alcohol acts as a vasodilator, expanding blood vessels, which can alter blood flow and potentially lead to unusual sensations like numbness or tingling.
Second, alcohol can affect the nervous system, impairing nerve function and causing sensations of numbness.
Additionally, alcohol can lead to dehydration, reducing blood volume and affecting nerve sensitivity.
Chronic alcohol use may also lead to peripheral neuropathy, a condition where nerves are damaged, resulting in numbness or tingling.
Why Anxiety Can Cause a Numb Scalp
Anxiety (including considerable health anxiety) can cause a numb scalp due to the body’s physiological response to stress.
When anxious, the body activates the “fight or flight” response, leading to the release of stress hormones like adrenaline.
This response triggers various physiological changes, including muscle tension and altered blood flow.
The scalp muscles may tense up, and blood vessels constrict, which can reduce blood flow to the area, leading to sensations of numbness or tingling.
Additionally, hyperventilation, common during anxiety, can further contribute to these sensations by altering carbon dioxide levels in the blood.
Your ONLY Symptom is a Numb Scalp
If your only symptom is numbness of the scalp, and you have not been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, the odds weigh heavily in your favor that you do not have MS.
But if you begin developing other symptoms that seem to be related, such as dizziness, headaches or tingling in your face, then don’t delay making an appointment with your doctor.
Dr. Williams is author of “MS Made Simple: The Essential Guide to Understanding Your Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis.” She is a member of the American Academy of Neurology.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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