Facial Nerve Conditions

Damage to the nerve that controls facial movement and expression can occur due to viral infections, stroke, or other factors. If you have a facial nerve disorder, trust the expert care provided by otolaryngologist and neurotologist Ricardo Cristobal, MD, PhD, FACS, at Texas Ear Clinic in Fort Worth, Texas. He can help if you have Bell’s Palsy or another facial nerve disorder. Call today or use the online tool to book your consultation. 

What are facial nerve disorders?

Facial nerve disorders describe conditions when you have nerve damage that controls facial movement and expression. Causes of facial nerve disorders include:

• Viral infections
• Trauma
• Surgery
• Strokes
• Tumors

A specialist like Dr. Cristobal is especially qualified to diagnose and treat facial nerve disorders. 

How do you diagnose facial nerve disorders?

As an otolaryngologist, Dr. Cristobal uses a variety of nerve function and imaging tests to diagnose facial nerve disorders. A test known as an ENoG test helps him determine the extent of nerve damage when performed within 21 days of the onset of paralysis or tremors. Electromyography, or EMG, assesses the progress of treatment. 

Dr. Cristobal may also order CT scans and MRIs to inform his diagnosis and treatment plan. 

What is the facial nerve disorder known as Bell’s palsy?

Bell’s palsy is one of the most common types of facial nerve disorder. It results from a viral infection that affects the facial nerve. Symptoms of Bell’s palsy can appear as:

• Weakness or paralysis on one side of your face
• Increased eye tearing, sound sensitivity, or taste sensation on the affected side of your face
• Pain behind your ear on the affected side prior to the onset of paralysis

Bell’s palsy usually fades independently within a few weeks or months. Dr. Cristobal offers antiviral medications and corticosteroids to ensure your successful recovery.

What are other types of facial nerve disorders?

Less common facial nerve disorders include:

Facial spasms

Facial spasms can result from an irritated nerve or pressure from one of the blood vessels of the brain. Botox® injections can relax the muscles and nerves to ease the spasms.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a side effect of shingles. When the virus affects the facial nerve, you may experience pain and blisters in and around the ear and ear canal. Treatment involves antiviral medications and corticosteroids. 

Neuromas

Slow-growing tumors, or neuromas, can also lead to facial paralysis. Dr. Cirstobal offers surgery or radiation therapy to restore facial tone and movement. 

Call Texas Ear Clinic if you are struggling with a facial nerve disorder. Alternatively, use this website to book a consultation.