Affected Muscles
1. Orbicularis Oculi
- Action: Closes eyelid
2. Occipitofrontalis
- Action: Moves the scalp anteriorly
3. Orbicularis Oris
- Action: Closes and protrudes the lips
4. Levator Labii Superioris
- Action: Raises the upper lip
5. Zygomaticus Minor
- Action: Raises the upper lip; exposes maximillary teeth
Mechanism of Muscle Weakness:
The weakening or paralysis of the muscles of facial expression due to damage of the facial (CN VII) nerve.
Other Symptoms:
- Drooling
- Difficulty speaking, eating, or drinking
- Headache
- Sensitivity to sounds; constant ringing in ears
- Facial or ear pain