Can maxillary sinusitis cause twitching?

Question

Hi doctor,

This MRI report pertains to my uncle. Last week, he experienced twitching on the right side of his eye and lips. Due to anxiety, we consulted a neurologist, who advised an MRI of the brain.

The report indicated maxillary sinusitis, for which antibiotics were prescribed, and a review has been scheduled for this week. We were informed that there is no neurological disorder or palsy and that there is no weakness to be concerned about. We are seeking a second opinion to better understand the findings and ensure appropriate guidance.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I have carefully reviewed the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) report and your uncle’s symptoms. The findings are largely reassuring and do not indicate any serious neurological disease.

The MRI shows age-related brain changes, such as mild brain shrinkage (cerebral atrophy) and small white-matter changes (leukoaraiosis). These are very common after 60 to 65 years of age, usually related to long-standing hypertension, diabetes, or aging itself. Importantly, these do not cause paralysis, facial weakness, or dangerous twitching.
The facial nerve, trigeminal nerve, and other lower cranial nerves are normal. There is no nerve compression, tumor, stroke, bleeding, or vascular abnormality. This confirms that there is no facial palsy, no brain attack, and no serious nerve disorder.
The MRI shows bilateral maxillary sinusitis with a mucus retention cyst. This is an ENT problem, not a brain problem. Sinus inflammation can sometimes cause facial discomfort, heaviness, or irritation, or trigger local muscle twitching, especially around the eye and lips. Antibiotic treatment and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) follow-up are appropriate.
The eye and lip twitching is most likely due to benign facial muscle spasm, stress, anxiety, fatigue, or local irritation. In many elderly patients, this is harmless and temporary and not a sign of paralysis or stroke.
Seek review only if there is persistent facial weakness, drooping of the face, slurred speech, limb weakness, repeated jerking movements, or loss of consciousness, none of which are present now.
This MRI is neurologically normal for his age. There is no brain disease, no nerve damage, and no risk of paralysis.

Continue sinus treatment, reduce stress, ensure good sleep, and follow up as planned. If twitching continues, simple medicines can control it. Please be reassured; this condition is not dangerous.

I hope this information is helpful to you.

Thanks.

Can maxillary sinusitis cause twitching?

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