September 1, 2022 Facial paralysis is the partial or total inability to move one side of the face because the muscles of the face have stopped receiving electrical information carried by the facial nerve. A patient with facial paralysis may not be able to close an eye, his mouth, may be averted and have difficulty speaking, may be unable or have difficulty eating, smiling, whistling, or even holding saliva in their mouth and drooling. Facial paralysis can set in quickly, within hours, or more slowly, over several days . It can then evolve into a complete recovery or, on the contrary, become permanent. Causes of facial paralysis Facial paralysis can have many causes. The most frequent cause is Bell's palsy , which corresponds to an inflammation of the facial nerve whose origin is not fully understood. Other causes include viral infections, ear infections, stroke, tumors of the facial nerve or tumors of organs adjacent to the nerve, head or face trauma, complications from neurosurgical surgery or ear surgery. Peripheral facial palsy and central facial palsy In peripheral facial palsy, the cause is related to the facial nerve ; In central facial palsy, the cause is in the central nervous system , that is, in the brain, as in cases of stroke. When to go to an otolaryngologist In face of the slightest suspicion of facial paralysis , it is important to seek the care of an otolaryngologist. Early diagnosis is very important . Quick medical help is essential to confirm the diagnosis and to carry out the investigation necessary to identify the cause of the paralysis. The diagnosis is based on: Clinical history; Medical examination; Any radiological exams (computed tomography, magnetic resonance) and electrophysiological exams (which study the activity and “health” of the facial nerve) that may be necessary to complement the information. Currently, the approach of a patient with facial paralysis is done in a coordinated way between doctors of different specialties, that is, it is a multidisciplinary approach . This team includes otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists, neurologists, physiatrists, plastic surgeons, among other professionals. Given the particularities of each case, according to the cause and severity of the paralysis, the team involved will decide which is the most appropriate treatment plan . This article was written by the Hospital da Luz otorhinolaryngology team. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
