Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes the muscles on one side of your face to suddenly become weakened or paralyzed. It is a disorder of the seventh cranial nerve, which controls muscle movements in the face. 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 and no attorney expenses unless our birth injury attorneys make a recovery for you. Additionally, our consultations are free. So why wait? Call no: 800-298-0111.
What is Infant Bell’s Palsy?
Infant Bell’s palsy is used to describe facial paralysis in newborn babies. When pressure is applied to a newborn’s seventh cranial nerve during the birthing process, it can result in this condition. 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 a temporary condition that can be treated. However, it may lead to permanent paralysis and/or muscle weakness if not properly diagnosed and/or treated. It is very important you 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 functions of the mouth. 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 done to the seventh nerve during childbirth is a likely suspect.
This nerve emerges from the brain stem, 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 are not essential in 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. In order to establish whether it was caused by negligence or another possible cause, one must evaluate and exclude the 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 goes away with proper care without lasting effects, then 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.
*This information is for education purposes. None of the information on this page is intended as medical or legal advice. No attorney-client privilege or relationship is hereby created.