Bell’s palsy is a condition that can suddenly weaken or paralyze the muscles on one side of your face. It is a disorder of the seventh cranial nerve, which controls facial muscle movement. Bell’s palsy is not typically a long-term condition, and it is believed that it can be triggered by a variety of causes, including:
- Viral infections
- Diabetes
- Sarcoidosis (causes organ inflammation)
- Medical negligence during childbirth.
If your child was born with Bell’s Palsy and you suspect it may have been the result of medical negligence, talk to a medical malpractice lawyer in Houston, TX to determine your rights. At Simmons and Fletcher, we charge no attorney fees or expenses unless our birth injury attorneys recover for you. Additionally, our consultations are free. So why wait? Call: 800-298-0111.
Infant Bell’s Palsy
Infant Bell’s palsy describes facial paralysis in newborn babies caused by the application of pressure to a newborn’s seventh cranial nerve during birth. Other names used to describe infant Bell’s palsy include:
- Facial palsy – birth trauma
- Facial palsy – neonate
- Facial palsy – infant
Bell’s palsy is typically temporary and can be treated. However, it may lead to permanent paralysis and/or muscle weakness if not properly diagnosed and/or treated. It is important to seek the advice and care of a qualified medical professional.
What Causes Bell’s Palsy?
The seventh cranial nerve controls the muscles of facial expression and mouth function. While doctors and researchers are still studying the causes, they believe a primary cause of Bell’s Palsy is the inability of the seventh cranial nerve to properly communicate with the brain. Damage to the seventh nerve during childbirth is a likely suspect.
This nerve emerges from the brainstem, and when damaged, causes weakness or paralysis of the muscles it controls. There are many different conditions that have been linked to Bell’s palsy, so always consult your physician if you observe muscle weakness or paralysis in your child.
What are the Symptoms of Infant Bell’s Palsy?
Symptoms of infant Bell’s palsy include, but are not limited to:
- Eyelid not completely closing on the affected side
- Increased ear sensitivity
- Uneven facial expressions
- Paralysis on the affected side (in severe cases)
While exams aren’t essential for diagnosing this condition, physicians can use evoked tests to challenge an infant’s sensory perception and hearing. If necessary, they may order a nerve conduction study to pinpoint the exact location of nerve damage.
Speak to an Attorney
Infant Bell’s palsy is a complex condition that doctors and researchers are learning more about every day. To determine whether negligence caused it or another possible cause, you must evaluate and rule out other potential causes. If the injury is long-term, the time and expense of such a study may be warranted. If it is a mild case that resolves with proper care and has no lasting effects, pursuing it may be cost-prohibitive.
If you or a loved one has a child who has suffered due to the negligence of a doctor, contact us today. Call (713) 932-0777 to schedule a free consultation.
FAQ's
What is Bell's palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a condition that suddenly weakens or paralyzes the muscles on one side of the face. It is a disorder of the seventh cranial nerve that controls facial muscle movement. Bell’s palsy is not typically a long-term condition.
What is infant Bell's palsy?
Infant Bell’s palsy is facial paralysis in newborn babies caused by the application of pressure to a newborn’s seventh cranial nerve during birth.
What causes Bell's palsy?
Bell’s palsy occurs when the seventh cranial nerve fails to communicate properly with the brain.
What are the Symptoms of Infant Bell’s Palsy?
Symptoms that may indicate Bell’s palsy include: the eyelid not completely closing on the affected side, increased ear sensitivity, uneven facial expressions, and paralysis on the affected side.
