Question
I went out yesterday and today I found that my facial muscles are not functioning normally. Could this be due to exposure to the cold? Why does facial paralysis occur?
Answer
Facial paralysis is a common clinical symptom characterized by the loss of function in one side of the facial expression muscles. The causes of facial paralysis are diverse and can be categorized into two main types: first, low body temperature due to exposure to cold and wind, leading to the accumulation of coldness, affecting the facial nerve; second, head diseases such as cerebrovascular diseases, acoustic neuroma, or head injuries, which interfere with the function of the facial nerve, resulting in facial paralysis. Based on your description, after going out yesterday, you experienced stiffness in your facial muscles today, which may be due to facial nerve palsy caused by exposure to the cold. Typically, a period of intravenous therapy is required, and oral traditional Chinese medicine can also be taken. Additionally, treatments such as facial acupuncture, acupuncture, and acupoint massage can be performed.