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| Definition: |
Facial paralysis is the total loss of voluntary muscle movement of one side of the face.
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| Alternative Names: |
Paralysis of the face
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| Considerations: |
Facial paralysis in adults is often due to Bell's palsy. This disorder (probably derived from a virus) is characterized by a drooping mouth, dribbling saliva from the mouth, and problems with tearing from the affected eye. The consequences of Bell's palsy are mostly cosmetic. While the facial distortion usually improves over time, there is often some permanent deformity. Sometimes there is loss of taste on the same side of the tongue which the face is affected. Sound may also be louder on the affected side.
In facial paralysis due to stroke, the eye on the affected side can be closed and the forehead can be wrinkled. This is not possible with Bell's palsy. Other muscles on one side of the body are also often involved with a stroke.
Brain tumor symptoms generally develop gradually with accompanying headaches, seizures, or hearing loss.
In newborns, facial paralysis may result from birth trauma.
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| Home Care: |
Treatment depends on the cause. Follow your health care provider's treatment recommendations. Sometimes steroids and acyclovir may be given depending on the cause.
If the eye cannot fully close, the cornea must be protected from drying out with prescribed lubricating eye drops or gel.
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| Call your health care provider if: |
- There is any facial paralysis. If it is accompanied by a severe headache, seizure, or blindness it may be an emergency situation!
- The muscles in the body are involved.
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| What to expect at your health care provider's office: |
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting facial paralysis in detail include:
- Are both sides of the face affected?
- Is there any recent history of illness or injury?
- What other symptoms are also present?
The physical examination will include a detailed neurological examination.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
Intervention:
Arrangements may be made for physical therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy, if appropriate.
If facial paralysis from Bell's palsy persists for greater than 6 to 12 months, plastic surgery may be recommended to improve eye closure and facial appearance.
After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to facial paralysis to your personal medical record.
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Review Date: 7/18/2001
Reviewed By: Galit Kleiner-Fisman, M.D., FRCP(C), Department of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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