Bell's Palsy Symptoms Information and Treatment

Bell's Palsy is described as a quick onset of paralysis of one side of the face. While this can be a very scary medical condition for the person experiencing the paralysis, the situation is usually temporary and in the majority of cases a full recovery is expected. This article provided a quick overview of the symptoms and causes of Bell's Palsy as well as what you can do to aid the recovery process.

Bell's Palsy

Signs and symptoms include paralysis of one side of the face that begins suddenly, possibly overnight, or sets in over 1-2 days. The eyelid of the affected side will not close completely and the corner of the mouth will droop. The lack of control over the facial muscles can cause the person to drool and make it difficult for them to eat and drink. Pain is usually felt behind or in front of the ear on the affected side and the person may experience headaches. The severity of the paralysis will range from mild to severe.

The cause is not fully understood and there is no established link to physical trauma, but there may be a link in some cases to a herpes infection or autoimmune disorder. The paralysis results from a problem, such as swelling, of the 7th cranial nerve (a.k.a. the facial nerve), which is the nerve that controls movement of the muscles of the face.

Bell's Palsy is diagnosed by first noticing the loss of movement on one side of the face leaving it looking flat and expressionless. A physical examination, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), CT scan, electromyography (EMG), or nerve conduction test may be necessary to rule out more serious causes of facial paralysis.

As for treatment, recovery is usually spontaneous but slow, taking many weeks or months. A full recovery is expected in 60-80% of cases but permanent changes can result if the paralysis was severe. The condition is not life threatening.

Care needs to be taken to protect the eye of the affected side from irritation and dryness due to the fact that the eyelid does not close completely. Corticosteroids drugs may be used to reduce swelling of the facial nerve. Eye drops may help protect the eye during the day and an eye patch should be worn during sleep.

A warm, moist cloth may help control pain. As muscles regain strength, a person can begin exercises such as making faces in a mirror to regain control.