Facial Nerve Disorders
What You Should Know
Symptoms
Twitching, weakness or paralysis of the face are the most common symptoms
of facial nerve disorders.
Causes
Facial nerve disorders can be caused by traumatic injury, or result from
medical conditions such as Bell’s Palsy or herpes zoster oticus (shingles in
the ear).
Diagnosis
After an examination of the head, neck, and ears, a series of tests may
be performed. These may include:
- Hearing Test: Determines if the cause of damage to the facial nerve also
involves the middle and/or inner ear.
- Balance Test: Evaluates balance nerve involvement.
- Imaging: CT (computerized tomography) and/or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
determine if there is infection, tumor, bone fracture, or other abnormality
in the area of the facial nerve.
- Electroneurography ENOG: Stimulates the facial nerve to assess how badly the nerve is damaged.
This test may have to be repeated at frequent intervals to see if the
disease is progressing.
Treatment
Dr. Shohet is sensitive to the many issues related to facial nerve disorders.
In order to ensure the best possible outcome, he uses a multidisciplinary
approach to diagnose and treat these conditions, working closely with
patients to help overcome the effects of their disease or injury through
medication,
physical rehabilitation, and/or surgery. Hearing, facial nerve and balance problems can have a major impact on relationships, professional aspirations
and quality of life. Our philosophy is to work closely with our patients
and their loved ones to identify the causes of these problems and provide
solutions
that work.
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