Q They say the 72 hours after facial palsy onset is the golden time. Do I really have to start treatment within that window?
A Yes, the 72 hours after onset is the golden time. Starting steroids together with Korean medicine treatment in this window makes a big difference in reducing nerve damage and preventing after-effects.
Detailed Answer
In the acute phase (within 72 hours of onset), steroid administration is recommended as standard treatment to suppress inflammation and swelling of the nerve and reduce damage. This is because inflammation must be calmed quickly, before nerve degeneration progresses, to minimize damage. It is not necessary to give up on treatment just because 72 hours have passed, but starting treatment within the golden time has a decisive effect on the prognosis.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we give priority same-day registration to patients who come in within 72 hours and begin treatment immediately. In the acute phase, we first carry out clearing the upper body (cheongsang) to bring down the heat and pressure gathered in the facial area, and detoxifying (haedok) to remove the blood stasis and phlegm-retention that block circulation, quickly creating an environment in which the nerve can recover. If your mouth suddenly twists while you are near Dong-gu, Incheon, please come in the same day.
Related FAQs
-
Q
If I receive treatment diligently, can I fully return to how I was before? Or will some trace remain?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
My ear hurts terribly and blisters appeared, and now I have facial paralysis. Is this Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
Along with facial paralysis I developed tinnitus and hearing loss. Are the two symptoms related?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
My eye won't close and it's very uncomfortable at night. How do I prevent corneal damage?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
Are there facial muscle exercises I can do at home? I've also heard they can do harm if done wrong.
#Lifestyle Management