What are the dangers of facial paralysis?

Jul 03, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I woke up this morning with facial stiffness, unable to chew normally or make significant facial movements. What are the potential risks and complications of facial paralysis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Huang Shichang
The main hazards of facial paralysis include the following aspects: 1. **Psychological impact**: Facial paralysis may cause patients to develop psychological issues such as anxiety and depression, especially when the effective treatment window is missed and the treatment course is prolonged, leading to invisible psychological pressure on the patient. 2. **Aesthetic impact**: Clinical manifestations of facial paralysis, such as facial asymmetry and inability to close the eyes, can significantly affect the patient's facial appearance. 3. **Functional impairment**: Facial paralysis may lead to difficulties in chewing, causing food to spill during meals, and prolonged impairment may result in poor nutrition. In addition, the inability to close the eyes may trigger eye conditions such as vision loss, keratitis, and conjunctivitis. 4. **Health risks**: Facial paralysis may also cause food to remain in the mouth for extended periods, increasing the risk of oral infections. Once symptoms of facial paralysis appear, prompt medical attention and professional treatment should be sought.