## Overview When facial nerve paralysis affects the eyelid branch, the horse cannot close the eye or blink normally. This leads to exposure keratitis, corneal drying, excessive tearing, and a high risk of corneal ulceration. Eye protection is the immediate priority. ## Causes Same as facial nerve paralysis: trauma, pressure, or central lesions affecting the nerve supply to the orbicularis oculi. ## Diagnosis Observation of incomplete blink and corneal changes. Fluorescein staining checks for ulcers. ## Treatment Frequent lubrication, temporary tarsorrhaphy (partial eyelid closure) if needed, treatment of any ulcer, and management of the underlying nerve injury. ## Recovery and Prognosis Depends on nerve recovery. Corneal scarring can persist even if blink returns. ## Prevention Early recognition and aggressive corneal protection.
inability to close the eye; dry or dull cornea; excessive tearing; corneal ulceration; eye remains partially open
## Overview When facial nerve paralysis affects the eyelid branch, the horse cannot close the eye or blink normally. This leads to exposure keratitis, corneal drying, excessive tearing, and a high risk of corneal ulceration. Eye protection is the immediate priority. ## Causes Same as facial nerve paralysis: trauma, pressure, or central lesions affecting the nerve supply to the orbicularis oculi. ## Diagnosis Observation of incomplete blink and corneal changes. Fluorescein staining checks for ulcers. ## Treatment Frequent lubrication, temporary tarsorrhaphy (partial eyelid closure) if needed, treatment of any ulcer, and management of the underlying nerve injury. ## Recovery and Prognosis Depends on nerve recovery. Corneal scarring can persist even if blink returns. ## Prevention Early recognition and aggressive corneal protection.
inability to close the eye; dry or dull cornea; excessive tearing; corneal ulceration; eye remains partially open