I am currently experiencing numbness on the left side of my face (cheek, mouth, tongue). Six weeks ago, I woke up with numbness on the right side - cheek, forehead, mouth - which went away before I began corticosteroid medication and Valtrex for what was believed to be a virus in my 5th cranial nerve. After medication, I had 2 weeks where I was fine, and now again, have woken up with numbness on the other side of my face, and the added bonus prize of dizziness sometimes. I have had CAT, MRI, Lyme disease tests and other blood work - all negative. However, I have just found out that I tested positive for Herpes simplex-1 (which a large amount of the population has). That said, I have been unable to locate any information that ties long-standing facial numbness to Herpes. I am wondering if I have 2 distinct things going on. I would appreciate any advice. By the way, I am currently taking Valtrex again (the doctor said for 3 weeks). I am trying to avoid taking steroids again, as I had to take high dosage IV steroids to try and knock out the numbness. Although I am continuing to take it, Valtrex did not appear to be doing anything last time, or this time. Numbness remains and appears to be worsening (muscles are becoming "tight"). Thank you for any help.