Cranial nerve palsy

Cranial Nerve Palsy

Cranial nerve palsy is a medical condition characterized by the impairment or loss of function in one or more of the twelve cranial nerves that emerge directly from the brain. The condition can result in a variety of symptoms, depending on which nerve or nerves are affected.

Pronunciation

Cranial nerve palsy is pronounced as kray-nee-uhl nurv pahl-zee.

Etymology

The term "cranial nerve palsy" is derived from the Latin cranialis (pertaining to the skull), nervus (nerve), and the Greek palsis (paralysis).

Symptoms

The symptoms of cranial nerve palsy can vary widely, depending on which of the cranial nerves are affected. These may include:

• Diplopia (double vision)
• Ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid)
• Anosmia (loss of smell)
• Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
• Facial paralysis or weakness
• Hearing loss
• Vertigo (a sensation of feeling off balance)

Causes

Cranial nerve palsy can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Stroke
• Brain tumor
• Multiple sclerosis
• Diabetes mellitus
• Infection
• Trauma to the head or neck

Treatment

Treatment for cranial nerve palsy typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may include medications, surgery, or other interventions. In some cases, physical therapy or occupational therapy may be recommended to help manage symptoms.

See also

• Cranial nerves
• Neurology
• Neurological disorder
• Neuropathy

This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.