It is damage to the facial nerve which is responsible for the mobility of the facial muscles. The most common etiology is idiopathic and is called Bell’s palsy or ‘chilling paralysis’.

It is probably due to a transient swelling. It is believed that this swelling is caused by sudden exposure to cold and for this reason it is called ‘chill paralysis’. The nerve can also be affected by some viruses such as those of the common cold.

Other causes: meningitis, inflammation of the inner ear, skull fractures, tumors, infection by the herpes zoster virus, poisoning, diabetes etc.

The clinical picture is characterized by paresis or paralysis of the muscles of the half face corresponding to the affected nerve. This results in the drooping of the corner of the mouth and the inability to tighten the eyelids.

Treatment:

Medication is given immediately to remove the swelling. In case of unsatisfactory restoration of the nerve’s function, physical therapy treatment with electrical stimulation of the affected nerve is necessary.