Woman’s Year-Long Facial Spasms Linked to Dangerous Nerve Compression, Successfully Treated in Vietnam
A 42-year-old woman from Binh Dinh province, Vietnam, initially dismissed persistent facial twitching as a “good omen,” only to discover she was suffering from a potentially debilitating condition caused by compression of a critical facial nerve. The case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for hemifacial spasm, a neurological disorder that can significantly impact quality of life.
ms. T.’s ordeal began with subtle eyelid twitches over a year ago. Family members, influenced by local beliefs, interpreted these movements as a sign of good fortune, leading to a delay in seeking medical attention. Though, the spasms progressively worsened, spreading from the eyelids to encompass the entire eye area, cheeks, and even the muscles around the mouth. While not physically painful, the involuntary contractions occurred constantly, disrupting her ability to communicate, perform daily tasks, and ultimately eroding her self-confidence.
“Gradually,feelings of inferiority and anxiety took over,leading to a serious deterioration in her quality of life,” according to reports from Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital (HCMC),were she eventually sought help.Diagnostic imaging, specifically a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the brain and cerebral vessels, revealed the root cause: compression of the facial nerve VII by an aberrant artery.
Hemifacial spasm, as explained by MSc.Dr. Do Anh Vu of the hospital’s Department of Neurosurgery – Spine, requires prompt treatment. “If left untreated for a long time, the attacks will gradually become more severe and may lead to facial deformities and othre dangerous complications,” he warned. Fortunately, Ms. T. underwent a accomplished microsurgical decompression procedure at the hospital.
“The moment I saw my normal face after the operation, I felt an indescribable relief. Thank you,doctors,for helping me find myself again,” she shared,visibly moved. She was able to smile freely just one day post-operation.
Dr. Vu emphasized that hemifacial spasm typically affects middle-aged individuals and, while not painful, can cause important psychological distress. The primary cause is compression of the facial nerve by blood vessels within the brainstem. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation and MRI scans to pinpoint the compressing vessel. While medications, acupuncture, and Botox injections can offer temporary relief, they often come with side effects. Microsurgical decompression remains the gold standard for long-term treatment.
“Early examination, performing all necessary tests and following the treating doctor’s advice are the keys to finding the most appropriate solution to treat hemifacial paralysis,” Dr. Vu advised. The Department of Neurosurgery – Spine at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital is committed to providing lasting treatment results through a combination of expertise, advanced technology, and dedicated care.
With advancements in modern medicine, regaining a natural smile is now a realistic possibility for many patients.
South Saigon International General Hospital
Address: 88 Street No.8, Trung Son Residential area, Binh Hung, Ho Chi Minh city.
Hotline: 1800.6767
Fan page: https://www.facebook.com/BenhVienDaKhoaQuocTeNamSaiGon
website: https://benhviennamsaigon.com/
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/suc-khoe/nguoi-phu-nu-mac-can-benh-nguy-hiem-suot-1-nam-nhung-lai-tuong-diem-lanh-20251103141944763.htm
