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Patient with pain behind the left ear progressing to numbness of the left side of the face, tearing of the left eye, discomfort with low frequency sounds, and left facial weakness on exam. Dx?***

User TheDiveO
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The symptoms described suggest Bell's palsy, a condition characterized by sudden weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. The exact cause of Bell's palsy is still unknown, but it may be related to viral infections. Treatment involves medications and physical therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The symptoms described in the question suggest a condition known as Bell's palsy. Bell's palsy is a condition characterized by sudden weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. The progression of symptoms such as pain behind the left ear, numbness of the left side of the face, tearing of the left eye, discomfort with low frequency sounds, and left facial weakness on exam are consistent with Bell's palsy.

Bell's palsy is thought to occur when the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face, becomes inflamed or compressed. The exact cause of Bell's palsy is still unknown, but it may be related to viral infections, such as herpes simplex or viral meningitis.

Treatment for Bell's palsy typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, as well as physical therapy to strengthen the facial muscles. Most people with Bell's palsy recover fully within 3 to 6 months.

User Jawad Amjad
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