Smiling at a loved one. Enjoying a meal. Expressing your emotions. These simple acts become a challenge when facial nerves no longer work properly.
The facial nerve is critical for:
- Eye protection
- Facial expression
- Speaking
- Eating
- Other basic functions
Facial paralysis results from an injury to the facial nerve. It can appear suddenly or develop gradually over time.
Facial paralysis can cause the muscles to stop moving on one or both sides of your face. When paralysis occurs, it's because your facial nerves stop carrying signals to the muscles in your face. Some symptoms are temporary and get better over time. Others may be permanent, based on the underlying health problem.