Bell`s palsy treatment

Facial nerve neuritis is an inflammation of the nerves responsible for controlling facial muscle movements. The most common factors that provoke the development of this condition are:

• hypothermia due to exposure to drafts;

• infections (mumps, measles);

• traumatic brain injury;

• inflammatory processes in the middle ear, nasal sinuses, or brain.

Accordingly, neuritis can be classified as primary (caused by hypothermia) and secondary (caused by the other listed reasons).

This condition is characterized by sensory disturbances, pain in the ear area, hearing and taste disorders, and increased salivation.

In 98% of cases, neuritis is accompanied by noticeable facial asymmetry, visible at rest and sharply intensified during facial movements. On the affected side of the face, the skin folds are smoothed, and the shape of the eye slit changes (it becomes wider). If the patient is asked to wrinkle the forehead, no folds appear on the affected side. The nasolabial fold is smoothed out, and the corner of the mouth is constantly lowered. When baring the teeth or smiling, the mouth is pulled to the healthy side. When trying to close the eyes, one eye does not close completely.

The diagnosis and treatment of facial nerve neuritis are carried out by neurologists. During the consultation, the specialist inquires about the patient's symptoms and performs an examination.

To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor may ask the patient to perform a simple test:

• close or tightly shut the eyes (both at the same time, then one after the other);

• raise and then frown the eyebrows;

• puff out the cheeks, blow or whistle;

• wrinkle the nose;

• bare the teeth.

Based on how the patient performs these tasks, the doctor determines the presence of neuritis and the degree of facial muscle involvement.

Treatment involves drug therapy aimed at relieving swelling and inflammation of the nerve. Painkillers may be prescribed if the pain syndrome is pronounced. In cases of secondary neuritis, treatment targets the underlying condition that led to the inflammation. Once the acute symptoms subside (usually within 10–15 days), physiotherapy is prescribed to restore muscle function. Facial massage, as well as massage of the occipital and collar zones, is also recommended.

Recovery typically occurs within two to three weeks, but in some cases, full restoration of facial expressions may take up to a year. Therefore, it is crucial to start treatment as early as possible to avoid complications. Complete recovery is observed in 75% of patients.

The neurology department at Oxford Medical – Kyiv will provide you with professional care in treating neuritis and neuralgia.