## Overview Facial nerve paralysis is loss of function of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which controls the muscles of facial expression. It produces lip droop, ear droop, inability to blink, and muzzle deviation toward the normal side. Trauma and post-anesthetic neuropathy are common causes. ## Causes Trauma to the nerve as it crosses the face, prolonged halter pressure, or central lesions. Inflammation or infection can also be involved. ## Diagnosis Clinical observation of asymmetric facial movement. Neurologic examination localizes the lesion. Further diagnostics if a central cause is suspected. ## Treatment Anti-inflammatories if acute, eye protection to prevent corneal ulcers, and time for nerve recovery. Physical therapy or acupuncture is sometimes used. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Many traumatic cases improve over weeks to months. Complete recovery is not guaranteed. ## Prevention Careful halter fit and avoidance of facial trauma.
lip droop; ear droop; inability to blink; muzzle pulled to the normal side; food falling from the mouth; drooling
## Overview Facial nerve paralysis is loss of function of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which controls the muscles of facial expression. It produces lip droop, ear droop, inability to blink, and muzzle deviation toward the normal side. Trauma and post-anesthetic neuropathy are common causes. ## Causes Trauma to the nerve as it crosses the face, prolonged halter pressure, or central lesions. Inflammation or infection can also be involved. ## Diagnosis Clinical observation of asymmetric facial movement. Neurologic examination localizes the lesion. Further diagnostics if a central cause is suspected. ## Treatment Anti-inflammatories if acute, eye protection to prevent corneal ulcers, and time for nerve recovery. Physical therapy or acupuncture is sometimes used. ## Recovery and Prognosis Variable. Many traumatic cases improve over weeks to months. Complete recovery is not guaranteed. ## Prevention Careful halter fit and avoidance of facial trauma.
lip droop; ear droop; inability to blink; muzzle pulled to the normal side; food falling from the mouth; drooling