5 Leading Causes of Flaccid Facial Paralysis

Facial paralysis is a condition that affects many people worldwide. It occurs when there is damage to the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face. Flaccid facial paralysis is a type of facial paralysis that is characterized by the drooping of one side of the face. Various factors can cause this condition, so you must be informed about possible causes and symptoms. Here are the five leading causes of flaccid facial paralysis.

Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of flaccid facial paralysis. This condition occurs when the facial nerve becomes inflamed, causing it to swell and compress. This compression leads to the paralysis of the facial muscles, resulting in the drooping of one side of the face. Bell’s palsy is usually temporary and can be treated with medication and physical therapy.

Trauma

Facial trauma can also cause flaccid facial paralysis. This can occur due to a surgical misstep, a car accident, a fall or a sports injury. Trauma to the face can damage the facial nerve, leading to paralysis of the facial muscles. Depending on the severity of the trauma, the paralysis can be temporary or permanent.

Viral Infections

Certain viral infections can also cause flaccid facial paralysis. The most common viruses that cause this condition include herpes simplex, varicella-zoster, and Epstein-Barr. These viruses can damage the facial nerve, leading to the drooping of one side of the face. Treatment for viral-induced flaccid facial paralysis usually involves antiviral medication and physical therapy.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is transmitted through tick bites. This disease can cause a range of symptoms, including flaccid facial paralysis. The bacteria that causes Lyme disease can damage the facial nerve, leading to the paralysis of the facial muscles. Treatment for Lyme disease usually involves antibiotics and physical therapy.

Tumors

Tumors can also cause flaccid facial paralysis. Tumors that grow near the facial nerve can compress and damage the nerve, leading to the drooping of one side of the face. Treatment for tumors that cause facial paralysis may involve surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.

Could You Be Experiencing Flaccid Facial Paralysis?

Common symptoms of flaccid paralysis can include:

• Inability to close an eye
• Inability to raise an eyebrow
• Difficulty lifting a corner of the mouth
• Reduced muscle tone
• Speech impairment
• Difficulty eating or drinking
• Noticeable drooping of part of the face

If you experience any symptoms of flaccid facial paralysis, you need to seek medical attention from a facial paralysis specialist. Our experts at New York Facial Paralysis in the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital at 210 East 64th Street can diagnose your condition and recommend effective treatments that may help prevent permanent damage to the facial nerve and can lead to a full recovery. We can also suggest several reanimation therapies to restore movement when facial muscles are no longer viable.

Contact us today at 212-371-FACE to schedule a consultation with our talented specialists in New York City.