What is Bell's Palsy?
Bell's palsy is a temporary condition that causes sudden weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles on one side of the face. It occurs when the seventh cranial nerve (facial nerve) becomes inflamed or compressed.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
- Difficulty closing one eye
- Drooping of the mouth on the affected side
- Problems with:
- Smiling
- Frowning
- Eating and drinking
- Speaking clearly
- Changes in taste sensation
- Increased sensitivity to sound
- Headache or pain around the ear
Causes and Risk Factors
Primary Causes
- Viral infections (especially herpes simplex virus)
- Inflammation of the facial nerve
- Immune system responses
Risk Factors
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Upper respiratory conditions
- Age (more common between 15-45 years)
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Sometimes MRI or CT scans
- Electrical testing of nerve function
Treatment Options
-
Medications
- Corticosteroids (like prednisone)
- Antiviral medications
- Pain relievers
-
Eye Care
- Artificial tears
- Eye patches
- Protective ointments
-
Physical Therapy
- Facial exercises
- Massage
- Electrical stimulation
Recovery and Outlook
- Most patients recover completely within 3-6 months
- Recovery typically begins 2 weeks to 2 months after onset
- About 85% of patients show improvement within 3 weeks
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Sudden facial weakness
- Inability to close one eye
- Severe facial pain
- Other neurological symptoms
Prevention and Self-Care
- Protect the affected eye
- Follow prescribed medication regimens
- Perform recommended exercises
- Maintain good nutrition
- Get adequate rest
Long-term Management
- Regular follow-up appointments
- Continued eye care if needed
- Stress management
- Lifestyle modifications as recommended