Neuritis of the facial nerve treatment and diagnostics abroad

Facial nerve neuritis (Bell's palsy) is a sudden weakness of the facial muscles on one side of the face. In most patients the nerve recovers within weeks or months, especially when treatment starts in the first days.

Below are clinics abroad: compare their diagnostic and rehabilitation options, doctors and prices.

Symptoms

• sudden facial asymmetry, a drooping corner of the mouth;
• inability to close the eye fully, a dry or watery eye;
• difficulty with facial expressions, a heavy feeling in the face;
• pain behind the ear, sensitivity to sound, a change in taste.

Important: sudden facial weakness can be a sign of stroke, especially together with arm or leg weakness or speech problems — then emergency help is needed.

Causes

In most cases it is idiopathic Bell's palsy, probably linked to viral inflammation of the nerve. Other causes include shingles (Ramsay Hunt syndrome), Lyme disease, middle ear infection, injury or tumors, which is why an examination matters.

Diagnosis

• neurological and ear examination;
• MRI or CT — for an atypical course, a suspected tumor or no improvement;
• electroneurography and electromyography — to assess the degree of nerve damage and the outlook.

Treatment

• Corticosteroids — most effective when started within the first 72 hours; antivirals are added when indicated.
• Eye protection — lubricating drops, ointment, a night-time eye patch.
• Physiotherapy — exercises for the facial muscles.
• Facial reanimation surgery — in rare cases of long-lasting paralysis.

See clinics in the neurology and neurosurgery sections.

Send a request — Clinics Direct coordinators will help you arrange a neurologist's consultation abroad free of charge.