Q My eye won't close and it's very uncomfortable at night. How do I prevent corneal damage?
A Use artificial tears frequently, apply eye ointment at bedtime, then close the eye with tape or an eye patch. If the eye can't close, there is a risk of corneal damage, so prompt measures are needed.
Detailed Answer
If the eye does not close completely due to facial nerve palsy, the cornea can become dry and exposed to foreign matter, leading to a corneal ulcer. During the day, instill artificial tears (preferably preservative-free, single-use) every 1 to 2 hours, and wear protective glasses when going out. At bedtime, the standard care is to apply eye ointment and then secure the eyelid with medical tape or an eye patch so that the cornea is not exposed.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, we use acupuncture that stimulates the meridians around the eye to help recover the eye-closing function (the orbicularis oculi muscle). Managing both the heat gathered in the facial area and the blocked circulation together makes recovery of the eyelid muscle considerably easier. If a corneal abnormality is suspected, you should also see an ophthalmologist, and at Dongjedang we will arrange an ophthalmology referral when needed.
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
Are there facial muscle exercises I can do at home? I've also heard they can do harm if done wrong.
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
How do you tell facial paralysis from a stroke apart from facial palsy (gu-an-wa-sa)? I heard if the forehead wrinkles it's okay.
#Safety