Facial neuritis (neuropathy) is a disease of the nervous system in which there is a partial or complete violation of the functions of the facial musculature. Depending on the level at which the lesion occurs, there is a central or peripheral lesion.
The following forms of neuritis are distinguished:
1. Primary (idiopathic) — considered synonymous with Bell's palsy, occurs due to compression and swelling of the nerve in the bone canal where the nerve passes. Its cause is unknown; it occurs more often as a result of hypothermia or viral infection.
2. Secondary. Is a consequence of another disease (diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, etc.).
Symptoms: when to see a doctor?
Facial neuritis is most often characterized by a unilateral lesion and manifests as these changes:
• weakness of mimic muscles on the affected side (nonclosing of eyelids, smoothing of the frontal folds, drooping of the corner of the mouth, cheeks);
• smoothing of the nasolabial fold;
• a change of taste in the front ⅔ of the tongue;
• lacrimal and salivary gland secretion disorders (dry eyes or lacrimation, dry mouth);
• difficulties while eating.
The doctor conducts diagnostic tests: asks you to raise your eyebrows, frown, close your eyes tightly, pout your cheeks, and show your teeth.
There are also general symptoms: headache, sensitivity to sound, change in taste.
If the inflammatory process is caused by a herpes virus infection, this condition is called Hunt's syndrome. It is clinically distinguished by the fact that the facial nerve is preceded by a painful red rash on the cheek or near the ear.
If any of these symptoms occur, you should make an appointment with a doctor to start treatment in time to avoid serious neurological complications.
