What is Hemifacial Spasm?

Hemifacial spasm is a neurological condition characterized by involuntary and repetitive contractions of the facial muscles. These contractions can occur on one side of the face or sometimes on both sides. It typically begins as tics, eye blinking, or twitching and worsens over time.

What Are the Causes of Hemifacial Spasm?

• Vascular Compression: 
  The most common cause of hemifacial spasm is compression of a facial nerve by a blood vessel. This condition interferes with the normal transmission of the nerve, leading to involuntary muscle contractions.
• Nerve Damage: 
  Damage or irritation of the facial nerve can cause hemifacial spasm. Nerve damage can prevent the nerve from performing its normal functions and lead to muscle contractions.
• Trauma: 
  Injuries to the face or head can contribute to the development of hemifacial spasm. Traumas can cause nerve damage or nerve compression.
• Infections:
   Some infections, especially the herpes zoster virus, can trigger hemifacial spasm. Viral infections can affect nerve tissue and lead to spasms.
• Other Neurological Conditions: 
  Hemifacial spasm may be associated with certain neurological conditions. Particularly, neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis can contribute to the onset of hemifacial spasm.
• Medication Side Effects:
   Some medications, especially certain antipsychotic and anticonvulsant drugs, may cause hemifacial spasm. These side effects may stem from the medication's effects on the nervous system.
• Stress and Anxiety:
   Psychological factors like stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen symptoms of hemifacial spasm. The effects of stress on the nervous system can lead to involuntary muscle contractions.
• Hormonal Changes: 
  Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause or hormonal therapies, can contribute to the development of hemifacial spasm. Hormones can trigger muscle contractions by affecting the nervous system.
  
  

How Is Hemifacial Spasm Treated?

Treatment for hemifacial spasm aims to control symptoms, and the treatment plan is individualized for each patient. Treatment should be evaluated and determined by a specialist physician.

• Medication: 
  Anticonvulsant drugs, muscle relaxants, or antidepressants may be used.
• Physical Therapy:
   Used to strengthen facial muscles and provide relaxation.
• Stress Management: 
  Relaxation and stress reduction exercises, meditation, or yoga may be practiced to reduce stress.

Treatment for Hemifacial Spasm aims to control symptoms. Medication therapy typically involves the use of anticonvulsants or muscle relaxants to reduce muscle spasms. However, medication therapy may not always be effective or may have side effects.

What Are the Interventional Treatments for Hemifacial Spasm?

Interventional treatments for hemifacial spasm include various methods used to control or alleviate symptoms.

• Neurotoxin Injections:
  Temporarily halt involuntary contractions in the muscles.
• Surgical Intervention:
  Removal of structures compressing or putting pressure on the facial nerve.
  
  

How Are Neurotoxin Injections Used in the Treatment of Hemifacial Spasm?

Neurotoxin treatment: One of the most commonly used methods in the treatment of hemifacial spasm is neurotoxin injection. This toxin is injected into facial muscles and reduces symptoms by reducing involuntary contractions. Neurotoxins work by blocking nerve endings from sending signals to muscles. Injections are usually administered to specific muscle groups and their effects may last for several months. Neurotoxin treatment should be performed by a neurology specialist or an experienced physician. Careful evaluation should be conducted before and after treatment, and the appropriate dosage should be determined for the patient.

If neurotoxin is to be preferred for the treatment of hemifacial spasm, the procedure must be performed by an experienced doctor. You can contact our surgery in Izmir for information on the treatment of hemifacial spasm and interventional procedures.