General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
A suddenly drooping mouth can be a sign of stroke. Call 15 or 112 immediately in France, particularly with limb weakness or difficulty speaking. Do not try to distinguish central from peripheral facial paralysis yourself.
After that initial assessment, diagnosis of peripheral facial paralysis begins with a clinical examination. The doctor assesses facial muscles, severity and speed of onset, and may refer you to an ENT specialist or neurologist.
Report pain, fever, a rash, a recent infection, a tick bite or an injury. This information helps the doctor look for a cause; peripheral facial paralysis does not always occur without an identifiable cause.
An eye that does not close properly risks corneal damage. An ophthalmic examination is therefore often needed to look for damage and assess tear production. Promptly clarify eye care with the team assessing you.
The ENT assessment may include a hearing test and examination of the eardrum. Depending on the situation, the doctor may request blood tests, a CT scan or MRI. These are possible parts of assessment, rather than a list of tests everyone should request.
At the end of assessment, ask which results are outstanding and who will check facial recovery and the condition of the eye. Note persistent difficulties for review. Recovery speed varies; no early test alone guarantees how it will develop.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.