Definition of Seventh cranial nerve paralysis
Seventh cranial nerve paralysis: Known as Bell's palsy, this is paralysis of the
facial nerve, the nerve that supplies the facial muscles on
one side of the face. The cause of Bell's palsy is not
known, but it is thought to be related to a virus (or to
various viruses). Bell's palsy typically starts suddenly
and causes paralysis of the muscles of the side of the face
on which the facial nerve is affected. (The facial nerve is
also known as the 7th cranial nerve). The treatment of
Bell's palsy is directed toward protecting the eye on the
affected side from dryness during sleep. Massage of
affected muscles can reduce soreness. Sometimes prednisone
is given to reduce inflammation during the first weeks of
illness. The prognosis (outlook) of Bell's palsy is
generally good. About 80 percent of patients recover within
weeks to months. Conversely, about 20% of patients do less
well. The condition was originally described in 1830 by the
Scottish anatomist and neurologist Sir Charles Bell (1774-
1842). The word "palsy" is a corruption (and contracture)
of the French word "paralysie" which means "paralysis."
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=6318
Last Editorial Review: 4/27/2011 5:27:15 PM
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