Should one avoid certain foods with facial neuritis?

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

Updated on May 05, 2025

00:00

00:00

Patients with facial neuritis should still avoid certain foods during the acute phase. They should avoid alcohol, spicy and irritating foods, and preferably seafood as well. Consuming these foods may lead to immune dysfunction, which is detrimental to nerve recovery. Patients with facial neuritis are advised to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, which contain high levels of Vitamin C to enhance the body's resistance. They can also consume foods rich in B vitamins, such as whole grains, lean meats, and animal liver. For medication treatment, it is essential to treat promptly. If there are no contraindications, corticosteroids may be used under a doctor’s advice. (Please follow medical advice regarding medication.)

Other Voices

home-news-image

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

1min 7sec

home-news-image

What department should I go to for facial neuritis?

Facial neuritis is a nonspecific inflammatory response of the facial nerve, which causes paralysis of the facial nerve, leading to paralysis of the facial muscles it controls. Facial neuritis is treated in the neurology department of many hospitals, so registration for facial neuritis should be done under neurology. Neurologists will make necessary diagnoses based on the patient's clinical symptoms, then prescribe relevant auxiliary examinations to rule out other conditions, such as facial neuritis caused by Guillain-Barre syndrome, and exclude facial paralysis caused by cranial ocupations. Additionally, some hospitals' maxillofacial surgery departments also treat facial neuritis, so one could also visit maxillofacial surgery for treatment. Overall, facial neuritis is primarily managed in neurology departments, though in some hospitals, it can also be managed in neurosurgery departments. Treatment for facial neuritis mainly involves administration of corticosteroids and B vitamins, such as vitamin B1, B6, and B12.

home-news-image

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

45sec

home-news-image

Does facial neuritis need treatment?

Facial neuritis, also known as idiopathic facial paralysis, can self-heal in a minority of patients with very mild symptoms without treatment. However, for most patients, it is still recommended to seek treatment promptly as it involves a non-specific inflammatory response. Treatment mainly involves the use of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and swelling of the facial nerve. Additionally, treatment with B vitamins such as commonly used B1 and vitamin B12 is necessary, as these can nourish the peripheral nerves. Furthermore, patients also need to undergo some physical therapy and rehabilitation training. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

home-news-image

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

1min

home-news-image

How is facial neuritis treated?

Facial neuritis is generally prone to occur in patients with immune dysfunction, with factors such as viral infections and some patients may be related to cold stimulation from air conditioning or fans on the face. The treatment of facial neuritis mainly includes the following aspects: First, glucocorticoid treatment should be given. Glucocorticoids play a very important role in the treatment of facial neuritis. They can reduce abnormal inflammatory responses and swelling of the facial nerve, which greatly helps the patient's recovery. Second, some B vitamins should be given to nourish the nerves. If the condition is caused by viral infection, antiviral medication should also be provided. In addition, some rehabilitation training is particularly important, and it is recommended that patients receive early physiotherapy and functional training for facial muscles.

home-news-image

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

59sec

home-news-image

Facial neuritis hormone treatment

If the diagnosis of facial neuritis is confirmed, and the patient does not have evident history of femoral head necrosis or diabetes, then it is advocated to treat facial neuritis with corticosteroids. Corticosteroids can suppress some of the inflammatory responses of facial neuritis, reduce edema, and facilitate the swift recovery of facial nerve function. The current guidelines recommend the use of corticosteroids for treatment. However, if the patient has conditions like elevated blood sugar, femoral head necrosis, osteoporosis, or gastric ulcers, the use of corticosteroids must be cautious to avoid adverse reactions. During the administration of corticosteroids, it is crucial to ensure the patient receives supplements of calcium and potassium to prevent electrolyte disturbances and osteoporosis. Besides corticosteroids, intake of B vitamins can also aid in promoting the repair of nerve functions.

home-news-image

Written by Zhang Hui

Neurology

48sec

home-news-image

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.