Definition – What is facial nerve palsy?
Facial nerve palsy is the paralysis of a so-called cranial nerve, namely the facial nerve. It is also called the seventh cranial nerve and has its origin in the brain stem. From there, it passes through various structures to the muscles of the face, for whose movement it is responsible.
In the case of paralysis, the transmission of signals from the facial nerve no longer functions properly, resulting in the loss of part of the facial muscles. The cause of facial nerve paresis is often unclear, but it can also be caused by injuries or infections. The treatment usually consists of the administration of cortisone, which is very successful.
Therefore, facial nerve palsy has a good prognosis. In the treatment of facial nerve palsy, a distinction can be made between general measures and treatment of the cause. General measures include physiotherapy of the affected muscles to strengthen them and prevent a decrease in muscle tissue.
It is also very important that the eye is protected against dehydration in case of reduced tear production or even failed eyelid closure. Tear substitutes and eye ointments that cleanse the eye and keep it moist are suitable for this purpose. If the eyelid can no longer close, a so-called watch glass bandage should be applied at night to protect the eye.
Since in most cases the cause of facial nerve palsy cannot be clarified, the cortisone preparation Prednisolon is then recommended for 5-10 days in the form of tablets. If an infection is detected, antibiotics or virustatics, i.e. drugs against the bacteria or viruses, must be given, depending on the case. If facial nerve palsy is caused by an injury or a tumor, it will be removed by surgery, if possible.
In the case of facial nerve palsy, it is important to strengthen the affected muscles early on. This is not only for cosmetic reasons, but also to prevent the muscle tissue from being broken down, which would otherwise occur if the muscles were not used for a long time. There are various exercises that can be instructed by physiotherapy.
However, it is also very important to do them regularly, preferably several times a day for 10-20 minutes at home, if help is needed, in front of a mirror if necessary. Care should be taken to ensure that the sick side is trained in particular. If an exercise does not yet work properly, two fingers can also be used at the beginning.
Depending on the affected muscles, the exercises include strengthening the forehead with repeated frowning and raising the eyebrows. The eyes can also be strengthened by opening and closing them several times. This also includes blinking several times and concentrated looking into the distance.
The nose can be trained by pulling up and down several times and by moving the nostrils. The exercises in the mouth area include showing the teeth, pointing the lips, pressing the lips together and smiling with the mouth closed and open. It also helps to inflate and suck in the cheeks.
Vitamin B, especially vitamin B12, is an important substance for the nerves in the human body as it supports their function and increases the speed of conduction for the transmission of information. Therefore, it is generally important to consume sufficient vitamin B, as the body cannot produce it itself. Nowadays, vitamin B is often given in addition to other medications to support facial nerve paresis and to reactivate the nerves.
However, the vitamin alone cannot cure facial nerve paresis. Although electrostimulation can be helpful in the paralysis of some nerves, it is not recommended in facial nerve palsy. There is no scientific evidence or studies that electrostimulation can improve facial nerve palsy. In addition, spasms, i.e. unintentional strong rapid muscle contractions in the facial area can be triggered instead. Depending on the location of the stimulation, these have additional negative effects on surrounding areas of the face and are perceived as very unpleasant by the treated persons.
