Experts state that facial paralysis is a disease that occurs when the transmission of the nerve that moves the muscles of the face (facial nerve) stops and the muscles do not move. They say that among facial paralysis, paralysis due to edema in the bone, called Bells palsy, is the most common.
Pointing out the issue of whether paralysis is a disease that occurs centrally (in the brain) or peripherally (nerve trace), ear, nose and throat specialists said, “Since there is a high risk of permanent in this disease, we start additional treatments. As is always said in every disease, early diagnosis and treatment are successful.” It greatly increases our chances.”
How does facial paralysis occur?
Experts state that facial paralysis is a disease that occurs when the transmission of the nerve that moves the muscles of the face (facial nerve) stops and the muscles cannot move. “After leaving the brain, the motor branches of the facial nerve pass through a narrow canal in the ear bone (temporal bone). After leaving this canal, “It enters the salivary gland on the cheek and moves the muscles that make up the facial expressions through various branches. Especially when it encounters any edema while passing through the narrow canal, the nerve’s transmission is interrupted and the muscles cannot move. This is called facial paralysis.” they explain.
A small percentage of ‘permanent facial paralysis’ may occur
However, doctors noted that some parts of this nerve can be cut in salivary gland surgeries and various head traumas, and the transmission stops, the facial muscles of that area stop working, and the facial movements on that side become asymmetrical.
Among the facial paralysis, we mostly see paralysis due to edema in the bone, which is called Bells palsy. These paralysis are “While they mostly recover on their own, they may not improve even to a small extent, leaving permanent facial paralysis. Asymmetry and aesthetic deformity occur on the face. When such a situation is encountered, a health institution should be consulted without delay.
Where the paralysis originates also directs the treatment
Experts point out that the first thing to check in the patient is “Whether this paralysis is a disease that has occurred in the central (brain) or peripheral (nerve trace)” and continue as follows:
“This distinction is very important for us because it determines our direction in treatment. The second thing the doctor will look at is whether there is an infection, cholesteroma or fracture in the ear on the same side. Whether there are surgeries or incisions for salivary gland masses changes the way we treat. The eyelid nerve is a branch of the facial nerve, and in facial paralysis the eye is affected by “It is important that it does not close as it may lead to eye infections. Starting treatment as early as possible increases our success in every way.”
Herpes Zosler virus causes facial paralysis along with rashes around the ears
Noting that medications, physical therapy, massage, hot application and other methods are used in the treatment, experts said, “Herpes Zosler virus can cause rashes around the ear, as well as hearing loss, tinnitus and facial paralysis at the same time.* Since there is a high risk of permanent persistence in this disease, we start additional treatments. “As it is said in every disease, early diagnosis and treatment greatly increases our chances of success.” they said.
References:
Gondivkar S, Parikh V, Parikh R. Herpes zoster oticus: A rare clinical entity. Contemp Clin Dent. 2010 Apr;1(2):127-9. doi: 10.4103/0976-237X.68588. PMID: 22114399; PMCID: PMC3220085.