The cranial nerves are vulnerable to damage duringhead trauma.
Even mild head trauma like aconcussioncan cause cranial nerve damage.
This delay may have to do with hematoma formation and resolution immediately after the trauma.
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The effects of cranial nerve injury may be temporary or permanent, depending on the nature of the injury.
Cranial Nerve Functions
There are a total of 12 cranial nerves.
These nerves exit from the base of the brain and run through different parts of the face and head.
The cranial nerves perform essential functions from providing sensation and controlling facial movements to initiating protective reflexes.
If necessary, anMRImay be ordered because it can visualize the fine details of the nerves.
ACTmay be necessary if damage to the structure around the nerves is suspected.
However, if it is stretched or bruised but remains intact, the nerve can recover.
This takes time and can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms including tingling and pain.
These symptoms are a good sign that the nerve is healing.
Neurologistsandneurosurgeonshave specialized assessments and interventions that address this bang out of nerve damage and should be consulted.
Nerve damage can be disabling and may require rehabilitation.
They may show up immediately after the incident or may not appear until days or weeks later.
Talk to a healthcare provider immediately if you notice signs or symptoms of cranial nerve damage following head trauma.
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