|
Page: Complications
Main article
| Home > Nervous System > Complications |
Major complications of the condition are chronic loss of taste, chronic facial spasm and corneal infections. To prevent the latter, the eyes may be protected by covers, or taped shut during sleep and for rest periods, and tear-like eye drops or eye ointments may be recommended, especially for cases with complete paralysis. Where the eye does not close completely, the reflex is also affected; great care should be taken to protect the eye from injury.
Another complication can occur when the nerve does not regenerate properly. Sometimes, there will be a bad connection between the muscles attached to the eye and mouth; this can result in the movement of one affecting the other. For example, when the person closes their eye, the corner of their mouth will raise up, or when they laugh, it will make their eye close.
In addition, around 6% of patients exhibit crocodile tear syndrome on recovery, where they will shed tears while eating. This is thought to be due to faulty regeneration of the facial nerve, a branch of which controls the lacrimal and salivary glands.
There exists a small, loosely connected network of physical therapists throughout the United States who specialize in treating Bell's Palsy and other forms of facial paralysis. They use refined forms of manual therapy for the face, facial exercises, neuromuscular re-education which includes using proprioceptive facilitation, biofeedback, infra-red laser, sensory electrical stimulation, and nerve conduction studies. This program, with all elements combined together, can see remarkable results in patients who have had their paralysis longer than 6 months, with no real hope of a spontaneous recovery. An extensive internet search can find one of these therapists.
|
Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
|