What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Injury to the Hypoglossal Nerve

What is Hypoglossal Nerve Injury? (Definition/Background Information)

• A Hypoglossal Nerve Injury is damage to the hypoglossal nerve (cranial nerve XII), which is responsible for controlling the muscles of the tongue. Damage to this nerve can result in difficulty with speech and swallowing, as well as weakness or paralysis of the tongue
• Individuals of any age and gender are prone to Hypoglossal Nerve Injuries. Individuals who have undergone surgery or radiation therapy in the head or neck region, or those with underlying medical conditions that affect nerve health, are more susceptible to this type of injury
• The condition may be diagnosed through radiological imaging and nerve conduction velocity studies. Following a diagnosis, a Hypoglossal Nerve Injury may be treated conservatively or surgically depending on its severity
• With appropriate treatment of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury, the outcomes are good, and the individuals are able to regain the full function of their affected region. However, severe cases may result in complications including severe swallowing and speech difficulties

Who gets Hypoglossal Nerve Injury? (Age and Sex Distribution)

Hypoglossal Nerve Injuries can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

What are the Risk Factors for Hypoglossal Nerve Injury? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Hypoglossal Nerve Injury include:

• Undergoing surgery or radiation therapy in the head or neck region
• Having a medical condition that affects nerve health, such as multiple sclerosis or diabetes
• Having a history of head or neck injuries

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury? (Etiology)

Some common causes of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury include:

• Surgery: Hypoglossal nerve damage can occur as a result of surgeries in the head or neck region, particularly those involving the removal of lymph nodes or other tissues
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy to the head or neck area can damage the hypoglossal nerve
• Trauma: Injuries to the head or neck, such as whiplash or blunt force trauma, can result in hypoglossal nerve damage
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as tumors or infections, can cause inflammation or compression of the hypoglossal nerve

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury?

The signs and symptoms of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury may include:

• Difficulty speaking or pronouncing words
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Weakness of the tongue
• Abnormal tongue movements or positioning

How is Hypoglossal Nerve Injury Diagnosed?

A Hypoglossal Nerve Injury is typically diagnosed through a combination of the following:

• Physical examination and patient history evaluation
• Diagnostic tests such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies
• Imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans, may be used to identify any underlying causes, including tumors and fractures

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury?

The complications of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury can include the following:

• Paralysis of the tongue
• Speech and swallowing difficulties
• Loss of taste sensation in the affected region

These complications can impact an individual's ability to eat and drink, which in turn can affect the individual's quality of life and overall health.

How is Hypoglossal Nerve Injury Treated?

Treatment for Hypoglossal Nerve Injury depends on the severity and cause of the damage. Some possible treatment options include:

• Physical therapy: A speech therapist or physical therapist can provide exercises to improve tongue strength and coordination
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to address the underlying cause, such as tumor removal or nerve decompression
• Medications: Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be used to alleviate discomfort

How can Hypoglossal Nerve Injury be Prevented?

Preventing Hypoglossal Nerve Injury involves minimizing the risk of injury or trauma to the head or neck region, as well as managing any underlying medical conditions that could lead to nerve damage. This may include:

• Wearing appropriate protective gear during sports or other activities that involve the risk of head or neck injury
• Regularly monitoring and managing chronic medical conditions that can affect one’s nerve health

What is the Prognosis of Hypoglossal Nerve Injury? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis for a Hypoglossal Nerve Injury varies depending on the severity and cause of the damage.

• With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many people can recover fully or regain most of their function
• However, severe injuries or those involving complete nerve transection (surgery) may result in permanent disability

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Hypoglossal Nerve Injury:

The following link is a useful resource for information on brain and nerve conditions on DoveMed:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/neurological-institute/