Seasonal pattern, Socio-demographic and health status effects on development of facial palsy in Gaza Strip

Abstract

Bacjground: Facial palsy a fairly common disorder predominantly prevalent in the adult age group, affects nerves and muscles in the face causing paralysis or dropping of one side of the face. Seasonal distribution has been discussed in several studies with variable, often contradictory results. Objectives and aims The main aim of this study is to evaluate the seasonal pattern, socio-demographic factors and health status related to the development of facial palsy in Gaza governorates. Methodology: The study adopted a quantitative descriptive, analytical cross-sectional design. The population of the study included the patients who are suffering from facial palsy in the main physical therapy departments in Gaza governorates including North Gaza, Gaza, middle area, Khanyounis and Rafah. The sample of this study was a convenience, it consisted of 146 patients. Data was collected by interview questionnaire. Results: The study results showed that 59.6% of patients have right side facial palsy. The majority (89.0%) of patients with facial palsy were affected in winter season. Moreover, the results showed that 45.2% of patients with facial palsy have the age below 26 years old. More than half (53.4%) of patients are females. The results showed that there was statistical significant association between the onset of facial palsy and (irritation and ulceration of the cornea, eye condition and spasms in the face muscles; p < 0.05), while there is no statistical significant association between the onset of facial palsy and (permanent weakness in the eyelid, runny tears from the eye, change in the taste of the food, present of drooling, increasing hearing sounds, pain behind the ear and lack of facial symmetry; p > 0.05). Conclusions & Recommendations: The study concluded that there is an environmental impact on facial pasly especialy the winter season.There is a need to increase awareness about the preventive measure to avoid facial palsy as weel as the the role of physiotherapist in the management of this disease at different health care levels. Key Words: Facial palsy, Seasonal pattern, Gaza strip.