Does facial neuritis cause facial pain?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on November 10, 2024
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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 Tang Bo
Neurology
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What causes facial neuritis?

Facial neuritis, also known as idiopathic facial nerve paralysis or Bell's palsy, is caused by nonspecific inflammation of the facial nerve inside the cranial foramen, leading to peripheral facial paralysis. The exact cause is currently unknown, but it is thought to possibly be related to viral infections of the optic nerve, as well as potentially due to exposure to cold or upper respiratory tract infections. The mechanism of onset involves the bony facial nerve canal, which can only accommodate the facial nerve. However, if the facial nerve becomes ischemic and swollen, it will inevitably lead to nerve compression. Viral infections can lead to local autoimmune responses in the nerves and spasms of the nutrient vessels, resulting in ischemic swelling and facial nerve paralysis.

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Written by Liu Hong Mei
Neurology
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Can facial neuritis be treated with hot compresses?

Facial neuritis can be treated with heat application, which can promote local blood circulation in the face and accelerate the repair of nerve functions. Patients with facial paralysis can control the water temperature at about 60°C during heat application, applying heat twice a day, each time for 10~15 minutes. It is important to prevent burns and treatments can also be combined with acupuncture and physiotherapy, which can nourish the nerves or use small doses of hormones. A light diet should be maintained, along with plenty of rest and adequate sleep. Avoid spicy, stimulating, excitatory foods, as well as raw, hard, and indigestible foods. Regularly eat fresh vegetables and fruits.

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Written by Yuan Jun Li
Neurology
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How to determine if facial neuritis is cured?

Patients with facial neuritis, if the paralysis of the facial expression muscles returns to normal, are generally considered cured. After the onset of the disease, patients must receive early and timely treatment. Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone, prednisone, and methylprednisolone can be used, along with B vitamins to nourish the nerves. Commonly used are vitamin B1, vitamin B12, adenosylcobalamin, and methylcobalamin, among others. One week after the onset, acupuncture treatment can be considered, as well as massage, physical therapy, and heat therapy. Most patients begin to recover two weeks after treatment, and basically return to normal within two months, with a minority possibly experiencing certain sequelae, such as facial muscle spasms or remaining facial muscle paralysis. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What causes facial neuritis?

Facial neuritis is very common in neurology, mainly caused by nonspecific inflammatory responses. For example, some patients with facial neuritis may experience viral infections, leading to inflammatory reactions in the muscles. Some patients develop inflammation of the facial nerve due to exposure to cold winds. Others may have immune dysfunction or rheumatic autoimmune diseases, which lead to inflammation of the facial nerve. Patients with facial neuritis usually experience paralysis of the facial muscles and may also experience significant pain, especially in the mastoid and external auditory canal. It is essential to treat facial neuritis early, using corticosteroids and B vitamins, as many patients have a good prognosis after treatment.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can facial neuritis patients eat beef?

Most patients with facial neuritis have a relatively good prognosis, as long as timely drug treatment is provided, along with some acupuncture rehabilitation and therapy training. Many patients will completely recover from their symptoms within one to two months, and most will not suffer from any long-term sequelae. There are no special dietary requirements for patients with facial neuritis, and they can eat beef. Beef contains rich, high-quality proteins that can boost the body's immune system and help prevent complications caused by facial neuritis, so it is permissible to eat beef. In addition, patients with facial neuritis should also consume more cereals because cereals are rich in B vitamins, which are beneficial for recovery. It is also advocated that patients eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits. Moreover, patients should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming spicy and irritating foods, such as chili peppers.