I notice sometimes my husband's mouth droops and at other times it is fine. Is this something I should worry about?

Hi Rhonda,

Thank you for reaching out to the Stroke Foundation.

We are sorry to hear about your husbands stroke but glad to hear that he is doing very well.

Facial paralysis occurs during a stroke when nerves that control the muscles in the face are damaged in the brain. Depending on the type of stroke, damage to the brain cells is caused by either lack of oxygen or excess pressure on the brain cells caused by bleeding. The damage can either be temporary or permanent.

When does the occasional droop occur, morning or night, when he is tired or fatigued? Droopy mouth often occurs with fatigue, as with communication it can be worse. We would suggest that he sees his GP to make sure it is nothing else more serious. If there are any new changes or concerns regarding any symptoms it is certainly worth checking out with his GP or a speech pathologist. Did your husband experience any other symptoms with the facial droop for example dizziness, headache or trouble with his vision?

You could perhaps keep a diary of when you notice it to see if there is a pattern?

Please feel free to reach out to StrokeLine in you have any more concerns or questions 1800 787 653 (Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm).

Kind regards,

Chloe

It is important to know the signs and symptoms of stroke.

FAST stroke signs and symptoms are: F=Facial drooping, A=arm weakness, S= slurred speech, T=time critical to get to a hospital. If you have any of these symptoms at any time, it is important to call 000 at the first sign as Stroke is an emergency.