Causes of facial neuritis

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on February 26, 2025
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The etiology of facial neuritis is not very clear, but some views suggest that viral infections can cause edema of the facial nerve, leading to compression of the nerve and resulting in inflammation. Additionally, some nonspecific inflammatory responses can also lead to edema of the facial nerve, presenting some clinical manifestations of facial paralysis. Other high-risk factors for facial neuritis include diabetes, autonomic instability, rheumatoid immune diseases, lymphoma, etc. Therefore, it is evident that the mechanisms of facial neuritis onset are unclear, with potential causes including viral infections, diabetes, central nervous system lymphoma, or autonomic instability, all of which can lead to facial neuritis. The primary symptom of facial neuritis is paralysis of the facial muscles. With standard treatment, complete recovery generally occurs within one to two months. Facial neuritis caused by tumors tends to recur and requires heightened vigilance.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can people with facial neuritis drink alcohol?

If facial neuritis occurs, one should not drink alcohol, as alcohol itself has a significant damaging effect on nerves. Patients who drink alcohol long-term can experience damage to peripheral nerves, such as numbness and weakness in the limbs. Since facial neuritis is essentially a form of peripheral neuritis, alcohol can damage the facial nerve, hence patients with facial neuritis should not drink alcohol. Patients with facial neuritis need timely treatment, which mainly includes the use of corticosteroids to suppress immune inflammatory responses and reduce facial nerve edema, significantly shortening the course of the disease; in addition, some vitamin B drugs can be used for treatment; physical therapy, rehabilitation training, acupuncture, etc., also play a role in the recovery from facial neuritis. In summary, patients with facial neuritis absolutely should not drink alcohol, as it damages the facial nerve.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What should not be eaten with facial neuritis?

Bell's palsy primarily refers to the idiopathic paralysis of the facial nerve. This condition is quite common and can occur in individuals of any age. Essentially, it is a non-specific immune inflammatory response. Patients should be cautious about their diet, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods, as these can exacerbate facial nerve swelling, which is detrimental to recovery. Additionally, alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can significantly damage the nerves. There are no special dietary restrictions otherwise; it is recommended to consume more fresh vegetables and fruits, such as greens, apples, and oranges. Consuming foods rich in B vitamins, like buckwheat, sorghum, and corn, is also advised.

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Written by Tang Bo
Neurology
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What should be paid attention to in daily life with facial neuritis?

If facial neuritis occurs, one should pay attention to eye care. Due to facial neuritis, eyelid closure may be incomplete, potentially allowing foreign objects or infections to enter the eye. Therefore, it is advisable to reduce outdoor activities, keep the eyes clean, and during social interactions, cover the affected eye with an eye patch or apply ophthalmic ointment to prevent conjunctival or corneal infections, while minimizing eye use. Regarding diet, some patients may experience disturbances in taste, so it is important to be mindful of the temperature of food, avoid hard food, and maintain oral hygiene.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Does facial neuritis cause facial pain?

Facial neuritis is mainly caused by idiopathic facial nerve paralysis, which primarily manifests as paralysis of the facial muscles. Symptoms include deviation of the mouth, eyelid closure, lack of strength in opening the eyes, and shallowing of the nasolabial fold. Some patients' conditions are related to viral infections, which may cause facial pain. However, the pain is generally not very severe, and anti-viral medications can be used for treatment, which are somewhat effective. Additionally, active treatment of facial neuritis mainly involves the use of corticosteroids and is supported by the administration of B-group vitamins. Most patients, with timely and active treatment, have a relatively very good prognosis, with many experiencing no residual effects. (Please take medications under the guidance of a professional physician, do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Yuan Jun Li
Neurology
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What should I do if facial neuritis is accompanied by a fever?

Patients with facial neuritis who experience a fever with a body temperature above 38.5°C can undergo antipyretic treatment. They can take oral acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or receive intramuscular injections of Chaihu and Lysine Aspirin Injection. Simultaneously, antiviral medications should be used, such as ribavirin, oseltamivir, ganciclovir, and acyclovir, etc. It is also crucial to actively use medications that nourish the nerves, such as oral vitamin B1, vitamin B12, cobamamide, and methylcobalamin. During the acute phase, corticosteroids, which also have a certain antipyretic effect, can be used to reduce local edema and promote the absorption of inflammation. Dexamethasone and prednisone are commonly used clinically, and the medication period should generally not exceed two weeks, etc. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a physician.)