Question
What’s the difference between peripheral and central facial palsy? Is peripheral facial palsy less severe than central facial palsy?
Answer
Peripheral facial palsy refers to a condition caused by facial nerve damage due to exposure to cold or viral infection. Treatment primarily involves antiviral therapy, blood circulation promotion, muscle relaxation, wind-damp removal, and nerve-nourishing medications. Complementary treatments such as acupuncture, massage, and physical therapy are also effective. Central facial palsy, on the other hand, is caused by facial nerve paralysis due to cerebrovascular diseases. In addition to the aforementioned treatments, active management of the underlying disease is essential. Compared to central facial palsy, peripheral facial palsy is generally less severe.