Facial nerve palsy

Facial nerve palsy is a neurological disorder that results in an inability to control facial muscles on the affected side. It is caused by damage or trauma to the facial nerve (seventh cranial nerve), which can occur due to a variety of conditions.

Causes

Facial nerve palsy can be caused by several factors, including:

• Bell's palsy, the most common cause, which is an idiopathic (unknown cause) unilateral facial nerve paralysis.
• Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of an infected tick.
• Herpes simplex, a viral infection that can cause cold sores and genital herpes.
• Sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in the body, but mostly the lungs and lymph glands.
• Tumors, both benign and malignant, that press on the facial nerve.

Symptoms

The symptoms of facial nerve palsy can vary, but may include:

• Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face that causes it to droop.
• Loss of the sense of taste on the front two-thirds of the tongue.
• Changes in the amount of tears and saliva produced.
• Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of facial nerve palsy is typically based on physical examination and patient history. Additional tests may include:

• Electromyography (EMG), which can confirm the presence of nerve damage and determine its severity.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan, which can help determine the cause of the facial nerve palsy.

Treatment

Treatment of facial nerve palsy depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Medications such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Physical therapy to improve nerve function.
• Surgical intervention in some cases, such as when a tumor is causing the facial nerve palsy.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with facial nerve palsy depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, individuals recover full facial strength and function.

Facial nerve palsy Resources
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