Facial Nerve Paralysis in the Elderly: Causes and Recovery Challenges

As people age, they experience many changes, both physical and emotional. People in their later years may experience chronic fatigue and frequently feel as though they lack the strength to perform demanding tasks. This is not the result of being lazy; rather, it is the result of the body's natural deterioration with age. While some of these changes are internal, others are visible. One such change is reduced facial expression or blinking, which can be a sign of facial paralysis or facial nerve Paralysis.

Facial Paralysis is characterized by sudden loss of facial movement due to nerve damage, making it difficult to express emotions through facial expressions.  On the other hand, results in baggy conditioning of the face, difficulty in expressing emotions, challenges in speaking, and eating. The severity and duration of facial palsy depend on the underlying cause.

Ayurvedic treatment for Facial Paralysis can help improve the challenging condition and its recovery through muscle strength, improve facial expressions, and coordination. Ayurveda is described by the term “Ardita”, a condition with functional abnormalities affecting the head and rectification of Vata dosha, making it a significant factor in successful facial palsy treatment. Rasayana Ayurveda Centre, the best Ayurvedic hospital in Kochi, hereby takes note of Facial Paralysis, which is the following:

What are the causes of Facial Nerve Paralysis?

 1. Vata Aggravation (Vata Prakopa)

Excessive exposure to cold wind, especially on either side of the face, Sudden temperature changes, as the climate is not stable, and Improper diet can aggravate the Vata. Physical and emotional stress can also be the reason for Vata Aggravation.

2. Ama (Toxin Accumulation)

Poor diet and problems in digestion can lead to toxin buildup, obstructing nerve channels. Accumulation of these toxins can turn into metabolic waste in facial tissues.

3. Dhatu Khsaya

In Ayurveda, this condition is linked to the natural wear and tear of the body, known as Dhatu khsaya (tissue depletion). Weakness in Majja Dhatu (nervous tissue) due to chronic illness or malnutrition, along with depletion of Rasa Dhatu (nutrient plasma), impairs nerve nourishment and function. The degradation of vital tissues disrupts facial nerve strength, contributing to paralysis.

4. Trauma or External Factors

Any kind of physical injury to the face or head, Dental procedures, or infections affecting the facial nerve. It also results from complications from ear or throat infections.

5. Lifestyle Factors

In old age, Individuals must follow a steady lifestyle that inculcates healthy habits. These factors must be carefully managed to prevent complications. Factors including irregular sleep patterns, which can easily disrupt Vata Dosha, excessive speaking, such as straining facial muscles, and the suppression of natural urges, all of which can contribute to imbalances in the body, which can also be a reason for Facial Nerve Paralysis.

6. Ayurveda perspective on Nerve Damage

Classical texts like Charaka Samhita (Indian traditional medicine) attribute it to Vata disturbance from lifestyle factors, while Sushruta Samhita emphasizes trauma or infections damaging facial nerves.

Ayurveda Recovery solution for facial nerve Paralysis

1. Internal Medications

There are many herbal medications in Ayurveda for strengthening nerves, balancing the Vata, and reducing inflammation. Enhancing nerve function and regeneration of muscle strength medicines are Ashwagandha, Bala, Rasna, Brahmi, Dasamoola Kashayam, Maharasanadi Kashayam.

2. External Therapies

Nasal Therapy: Nasal therapy or Nasya is the usage of medicated oil in the nostrils with proper guidance and care to clear nerve Pathways.

Abhyanga: Warm Mahanarayana Tailam or dhanwantaram Tailam is the most commonly used oil for face or neck. The deep massage helps to awaken the muscles and nerves.

Pinda Sweda: It is a Bolus fomentation for improving the circulation.

Lepam: it is an herbal paste which is mixed with Rasanadi choornam mixed with milk or water applied on the affected side.

3. Lifestyle modifications

Always nourish the body with warm foods such as soups, cooked vegetables to balance Vata. Intake of ghee helps to lubricate the body's irregularities and promotes better digestion.

Yoga and meditation help to elevate the inner healing and mind, reducing stress, tension. Humming bee breath and facial exercises can help to improve the condition of Facial paralysis.

The causes and recovery challenges mentioned above serve as general references and guidelines. However, individual experiences may vary depending on personal health factors and the severity of the condition. Always seek guidance from an Ayurvedic expert for proper diagnosis and treatment. Rasayana Ayurveda Centre is the best Ayurveda treatment centres in Kochi.