What is facial palsy
Facial palsy is a condition that affects the muscles of the face. It can result in a loss of facial movement and expression.
What causes facial palsy?
There are many different causes of facial palsy, including:
- Bell’s palsy: Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of facial palsy, accounting for about 70% of cases. It is thought to be caused by facial nerve inflammation, which a viral infection can trigger.
- Stroke: Strokes are another common cause of facial palsy. When a stroke occurs, it can damage the facial nerve.
- Tumours: Tumours on the brainstem or near the facial nerve can also cause facial palsy.
- Trauma: Injury to the face, such as a skull fracture or facial laceration, can damage the facial nerve.
- Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Lyme, can also cause facial palsy.
- Infectious diseases: Other infectious diseases, such as mumps, measles, and HIV, can also damage the facial nerve.
- Medical procedures: Some medical procedures, such as surgery on the ear or face, can also damage the facial nerve.
What are the symptoms of facial palsy?
The symptoms of facial palsy include:
- Weakness of one side of face developing over several days
- Drooping eyelid or mouth
- Dry mouth
- Drooling
- Irritation in the eyes
- Lack of taste.
