Hemifacial Spasm

Hemifacial spasm is involuntary, intermittent twitching of muscles on one side of the face, usually due to vascular compression of the facial nerve at its root exit zone. Clinical: unilateral intermittent eyelid/cheek twitching that may spread to the whole side of the face, worsened by fatigue/emotion. Treatment: botulinum toxin injections are first-line; microvascular decompression surgery for medication-refractory cases.

Common Symptoms

Unilateral intermittent facial twitching; eyelid/cheek involvement; worsened by fatigue/emotion; no weakness

Causes and Pathogenesis

Vascular loop compresses the facial-nerve root, causing ephaptic transmission and unilateral facial spasm.

Treatment

Botulinum toxin injections (first-line); microvascular decompression in refractory cases; reassurance

Preventive Measures

Botulinum-toxin follow-up; stress management.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.