Question
Hello, I would like to ask how to handle facial paralysis when it leads to taste loss, and what methods can be used to improve the situation?
Answer
Firstly, it is necessary to confirm whether your facial paralysis is central or peripheral. Based on the information you provided, it is initially judged to be peripheral facial paralysis. Central facial paralysis is characterized by a shallow nasolabial groove, drooping corners of the mouth when smiling, inability to whistle and pucker, and is often seen in conditions such as cerebrovascular disease, brain tumors, and encephalitis. Peripheral facial paralysis, on the other hand, manifests as inability to furrow the brows, wrinkle the forehead, close eyes, or react to corneal stimulation, with a shallow nasolabial groove, inability to show teeth, pucker, whistle, and drooping corners of the mouth. This is more common in conditions such as colds, ear infections, or meningitis caused by neurofibromas. For cases where facial paralysis leads to taste loss, it is recommended that you seek acupuncture treatment at a local hospital. Acupuncture can regulate the body’s Qi and blood flow, activate facial muscles and nerves, promote regional blood circulation, and thereby improve symptoms of facial paralysis and restore taste function. The specific treatment outcomes may vary due to individual differences and the severity of the condition. Treatment should be conducted under the guidance of a professional doctor, and treatment plans should be adjusted according to the condition as needed.