Bell’s Palsy

Bell's Palsy is a weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles from damage or trauma to the facial nerves.

In most cases, the cause is unknown. But it may be related to inflammation of the nerve, diabetes, pregnancy, Lyme disease, or viral infections, such as herpes or varicella. Symptoms usually appear only on one side of the face. They may include:

• Inability to close the eyelid
• Tearing of the eye
• Facial drooping
• Drooling
• Pain in the jaw or behind the ear
• Changes in taste
• Sound sensitivity
• Facial twitching
• Headache
• Trouble eating or drinking
• Problems speaking

Damage to the eye can be a serious problem. The inability to blink can cause the eye to dry out. An ulcer (sore) can then form on the cornea. Also, not blinking means that the eye has no protection from dirt and dust particles.

Treatment involves protecting and moistening the eye. Medicines, such as steroids, may also help.

How long it takes to recover depends on how severe the nerve damage is. Most people begin to get better within a few weeks. They recover fully within 3 to 6 months. In rare cases, some people have weakness that doesn't go away. Sometimes the condition returns months or years later.

• Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet to help yourself recover.
• Use artificial tears often during the day and at bedtime to prevent drying. These drops are available without prescription at your drug store.
• Wear protective glasses, especially when outside to protect from flying debris. Use sunglasses when outdoors.
• Wear an eye patch at night to protect the eye. A lubricant at bedtime can keep the eye moist overnight.
• Sometimes medicines are prescribed to reduce inflammation or treat specific viral infections of the nerve. If medicines are prescribed, take them exactly as directed. Usually, the sooner the medicines are started, the more effective they are. Taking the medicine as prescribed will help with a full recovery.
• Use low heat, such as from a heating pad, on the affected area. This can help reduce pain and swelling.
• If you have severe pain, contact your doctor.

Follow up with your doctor as advised. If you were referred to a specialist, make that appointment right away.

Contact your doctor if any of the following occur:

• Severe eye redness
• Eye pain
• Thick drainage from the eye
• Change in vision, such as double vision or losing vision
• Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your doctor
• Increasing headache, neck pain, weakness, or trouble speaking or walking