Teen’s Facial Paralysis Traced to Overuse of AC—Find Out How Cold Air Can Wreck Your Face

A 16-year-old girl had facial paralysis after exposing herself to the cold air from the air conditioner.

The online media outlet Sanook reported the girl was diagnosed with Bell’s palsy after reportedly feeling pain on the left side of her face, eventually leading to unnatural facial expressions and a crooked mouth from losing control of her face.

Doctors reported that Bell’s palsy was caused by inflammation of the seventh cranial nerve.

“The paralysis symptoms were visible. If I don’t smile, my friends won’t notice. I have to move my mouth carefully,” the 16-year-old shared as she returned to school after her summer break.

The doctor explained that her facial paralysis was triggered by entering a room with a low-temperature, air-conditioned room.

He continued, “Experiencing a drastic temperature difference between the hot outdoors and the cold indoor air can increase the likelihood of facial paralysis.”

While the exact cause remains unclear, most cases of facial paralysis in the summer are somewhat related to frequent air conditioner use and exposure to cold air.