Nerve disorders Archive

People with peripheral neuropathy may experience pain, numbness, tingling, and other unpleasant sensations. Often the cause cannot be determined, so the condition must be managed by attempting to treat the symptoms.

Bell's Palsy

Questions to Discuss with Your Doctor:

• Do you have weakness or paralysis of the muscles in your face?
• Can you still raise your eyebrows?
• Can you close your eyelids?
• Have you had ear pain? If so, on which side?
• Are your eyes watery?
• Have you noticed any change in your sense of taste?
• Have you had problems hearing?
• Have you had problems chewing?
• Over what period of time did your symptoms develop?
• Have you had a recent upper respiratory tract infection (for example, a cold)?
• Could you have had a tick bite in the recent past?
• Do you have diabetes?

Your Doctor Might Examine the Following Body Structures or Functions:

• Neurological exam focusing on the strength of the facial muscles
• Examination of the ears, nose, and throat

Your Doctor Might Order the Following Lab Tests or Studies:

• Blood tests for blood sugar and possibly Lyme disease
• Hearing test (if you report difficulty hearing)
• MRI computed tomography (CT) of the head (if your history and exam are concerning for a stroke or tumor)