Lip numbness, also called paresthesia, occurs as a result of many conditions that affect the sensory nerves. These nerves control feeling in the lips. Lip tingling and full numbness are both categorized as a lip paresthesis although these symptoms can present together or separate.

One of the most common lip numbness causes is an allergic reaction to food or chemicals. A Tingling or swollen lip can also be a precursor sign of an allergic reaction. The numbness can be instant or delayed. Minor reactions can last a few minutes, while a severe allergic reaction can last hours. Severe reactions may also include hives, dizziness, and trouble breathing, and often require emergency medical intervention to stop the reaction.

Mineral deficiencies can also cause lip numbness. A low amount of sodium, potassium, or phosphate leads to a chemical imbalance in the blood stream. This problem is often fixed by taking supplements after a doctor has confirmed which mineral has a low level, often by a blood or urine test.

Lip numbness can be a symptom of peripheral neuropathy. This condition is caused by another underlying condition such as diabetes, an auto immune disorder, or toxin build ups in the body. If lip numbness is present along with any symptoms that may indicate an underlying condition, a doctor should be consulted.

Poor blood circulation is another common cause of lip numbness. A constriction of the blood vessels of and around the lips can cause lip tingling and numbness. Reynaud’s Phenomenon is a condition that causes blood vessels to spasm, which first causes tingling or numbness. The condition then progresses to color changing from white to blue, and then to pink or red.

Neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and trigeminal neuralgia, are known to cause lip numbness or tingling. The automatic nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves that control involuntary actions. When neurological conditions affect how this system functions, breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate are also affected. A problem in any one of these functions can lead to numbness.

Any incident of numb or tingling lips should be treated as a serious symptom and should also demand immediate medical attention, especially when the numbness accompanies other symptoms. Doctors can perform specific tests to determine the cause of the numb lips. From the diagnosis point, a treatment plan for underlying conditions can be decided by a physician.