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A member asked:
Is it possible that an ear infection can cause facial paralysis?
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Yes but it is...: Rare. The facial nerve transits through the middle ear and sometimes is not covered by bone. It is possible for a middle ear infection to produce a transient weakness of the nerve. There is also a viral infection known as ramsay hunt syndrome that can produce a facial nerve weakness or paralysis. This may leave some permanent weakness after resolution.
Answered 1/5/2019
4.7k views
Yes, absolutely: In children, we frequently see facial paralysis as a result of an acute middle ear infection. In fact, it is the most common cause of facial paralysis in children, with lyme disease taking second place. It is very treatable and you should see your ENT doctor right away.
Answered 3/31/2016
4.6k views
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