G51: Facial nerve disorders

G51.1: Geniculate ganglionitis

The facial nerve runs from both sides of the brain to different parts of the head. The nerve does different things. For example, it controls a lot of facial muscles. The nerve is also important for our sense of taste. It also affects our hearing and how much saliva and tears are formed.

Your facial nerve is inflamed in a particular place.

The inflammation can cause various symptoms. Often one is no longer able to taste properly, and tears are no longer formed properly. Facial muscles may be paralyzed. Then one may no longer be able to close an eye, for example, or have a drooping mouth.