The cranial nerves consist of twelve pairs of nerves located within the brain. They are involved in processing sight, smell, taste, eye movements, facial muscles, hearing and tongue movement. Cranial neuropathy is a condition where these nerves have become damaged.
Cause
Cranial neuropathy is a secondary condition that occurs due to nerve damage caused by another medical condition. This includes diabetic neuropathy, HIV/AIDS and cancer.
Initial Symptoms
In most cases, cranial neuropathy affects the nerves that control the muscles of the eyes. The first symptom is face pain that is located near one of the eyes. It usually just affects one side of the face.
Progressive Symptoms
As this condition progresses, the eye muscles become paralyzed. You may also experience double vision.
Complications
Cranial neuropathy can include a condition called trigeminal neuralgia. This is a condition that can cause extreme facial pain. It can make daily activities such as chewing, talking and brushing teeth painful on one side.
Time Frame
In most cases of cranial neuropathy, the symptoms spontaneously get better and can completely disappear within 2 to 3 months.
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