Facial paralysis increases during the cold season: A warning for the elderly.

Tamil Nadu: Doctors have warned that prolonged cold weather in several districts, including Chennai, could lead to an increase in cases of facial paralysis among the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

They also advised people to avoid exposing their faces to direct cold air to prevent this condition.

This year, the monsoon season brought a change in weather across Tamil Nadu, resulting in unusually cold temperatures. Chennai experienced unprecedented cold weather.

Doctors have warned that the likelihood of developing facial paralysis is very high during this period.

They explained: The human face has countless nerves. Facial paralysis occurs due to sudden pressure, swelling, or infection in these nerves. Facial paralysis and general paralysis are not the same; there is a difference between the two.

Facial paralysis occurs when the nerves supplying the facial muscles are injured or infected. When this happens, the mouth cannot be opened properly. The lips are pulled to one side. One eye cannot be closed completely. Saliva may drool from the mouth. This also makes speaking difficult.

Avoid lying on a cold floor without a mat, pillow, or blanket, or resting one cheek directly on a cold surface. This can put pressure on the nerves and lead to facial paralysis.

This problem can also occur if cold air blows on your ears and cheeks for extended periods during car, bus, or train journeys. Even if you use an air conditioner, you should ensure that the cold air does not blow directly on your face.

If this occurs, complete recovery may take two to four months. Therefore, you should not ignore the symptoms and should consult a doctor.

Treatment will involve steroids and antiviral medications, followed by physical therapy.

They added that since people with facial paralysis cannot close their eyes completely, they can use eye drops to prevent dryness.