Cranial nerve injuries occur when the nerves in the head and neck are stretched or compressed during birth. This can happen due to strong pressure or twisting movements. These injuries can range from mild, temporary damage to more severe cases where the nerve is completely torn.
Common Nerve Injuries:
- Facial Nerve Injury:
- This can lead to weakness or paralysis on one side of the face.
- The baby’s face may look uneven when crying, with the mouth pulled to one side, deeper wrinkles on the normal side, and the affected side appearing smooth and swollen.
- In most cases, there are no visible signs of trauma on the face.
- Vagus Nerve Injury:
- This nerve controls muscles in the throat and voice box.
- Injury here can cause issues with breathing or voice.
