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Face & Eye Symptoms From Cranial Nerve Damage

Cranial nerve VII, or the facial nerve, branches off the brain stem between the pons and medulla. Its primary function is the control of facial muscles used in expression, as well as conveying taste from the tongue and mouth. When this particular nerve is damaged, its effects can most often be seen and felt in the face and eyes. Everything from medical procedure complications to tumors to infections are all possible causes of cranial nerve damage.

  1. Facial Distortion (Bell's Palsy)

    • In nearly 75 percent of cases, facial distortion is caused by an inflammation of the facial nerve. The inflammation, caused by a bacteria, is commonly called Bell's palsy. It is fairly common, especially in individuals with diabetes. With facial distortion, one side is usually affected, although rarely it can be bilateral. A drooping of the mouth, drooling and excessive tearing from one eye are the most common forms of distortion. Additionally, loss of taste in the front of the tongue and on the affected side of the face may be present. In most cases, the distortion resolves with treatment, although some 20 percent will experience permanent deformity. Some patients, especially seniors, are less likely to make a full recovery.

    Light Sensitivity

    • Photophobia can be caused by sunny weather, allergies, migraines and other minor illnesses. It is also a part of the natural aging process. If the condition persists for more than a day or two, it may be a symptom of a more serious problem. An infection of either cranial nerve VII or the optic nerve may cause light sensitivity, as well as a collection of other problems in the eyes. Normally, an infection will be associated with swelling of the eyes, redness and excessive tearing. If these symptoms are present along with light sensitivity, consult a physician immediately. The sooner you seek medical advice, the easier treatment will be, and the chance of recurrence will be less.

    Flavor Changes

    • The cranial nerve controls more than half of the taste receptors on the tongue and in the mouth. Because of this, if damage occurs to the facial nerve, taste perception can be altered or lost. Most often, sweet, spicy or otherwise flavored food will taste bland. Other times, the sense is lost completely on the front two-thirds of the tongue. This particular side effect is most often associated with Bell's Palsy, and is rarely the first sign of nerve damage.

    Blinking Problems

    • When the pathway of the facial nerve is blocked, all muscles past the blockage will not function properly. Without this connection intact, a common side effect is that one eyelid will not close. This can happen as a whole, where there is no blinking, or in part, where it will close half way. Both are usually indicative of either infection of the nerve, or a stroke. If left untreated, a damaged facial nerve can become serious and sometimes life-threatening.

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