Unilateral facial palsy
One-sided weakness of the muscles of facial expression and eye closure.
Also called: Facial droop, Paralysis of one side of the face, Unilateral facial muscle paralysis, Unilateral facial muscle weakness, Unilateral facial paralysis, Unilateral facial weakness, Weakness of one side of the face.
Conditions associated with unilateral facial palsy
The following conditions have been associated with unilateral facial palsy in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Bell Palsy
Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, often temporary, caused by inflammation of the facial ne...
immunodeficiency 133 with ectodermal dysplasia with or without peripheral neuropathy
immunodeficiency 133 with ectodermal dysplasia with or without peripheral neuropathy is a medical condition th...
Tests providers may use to investigate unilateral facial palsy
When investigating unilateral facial palsy, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Urinalysis
Examines urine content to help detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes....
Symptoms commonly seen alongside unilateral facial palsy
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult evacuation of feces....
Difficulty Closing the Eye
The inability to fully close the eyelid, which can be caused by facial nerve problems....
Drooling
Excess saliva that flows out of the mouth, which can be caused by swallowing problems, medication, or neurolog...
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Seizure
A seizure is an intermittent abnormality of nervous system physiology characterized by a transient occurrence ...
Taste Changes
An altered or reduced sense of taste, which can be caused by infection, medication, or nerve conditions....
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if unilateral facial palsy is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom unilateral facial palsy mean?
Unilateral facial palsy is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. One-sided weakness of the muscles of facial expression and eye closure.
Which conditions are associated with unilateral facial palsy?
Unilateral facial palsy has been reported in association with 2 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Bell Palsy, immunodeficiency 133 with ectodermal dysplasia with or without peripheral neuropathy. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about unilateral facial palsy?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.