[Peripheral facial palsy secondary to middle-ear overpressure]

Abstract

Facial baroparesis is an ischemic neurapraxia of the facial nerve. It occurs after airplane trips or prolonged diving. This paralysis is due to the tympanic promontory. Several promoting factors have been identified, including tubal dysfunction, hypotension, and neurotropic virus. Simple maneuvers can make it disappear: yawning, swallowing, or a Toynbee maneuver. Treatment is based on normobaric or even hyperbaric oxygen therapy. During airplane flights, the paralysis often disappears at landing.