Facial paralysis
Alternative names:
paralysis of the face
Definition:
Total loss of voluntary muscle movement of one side of the face.
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. Bell's occurs in approximately 5 out of every 10,000 people.
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 even blindness (rarely seen in strokes and never in Bell's palsy).
In newborns, facial paralysis may result from birth trauma.
Common causes:
Note: There may be other causes of facial paralysis. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for facial paralysis, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
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