Bell’s Palsy is a paralysis of the muscles of one side of the face. It usually develops over 1 to 3 days, and then slowly improves or completely goes away in 1 to 3 months. Most people with Bell’s palsy recover, but some are left with weakness on one side of the face. It is most common in adults in their 40’s and older, but it can occur at any age.

 

 

It is caused by swelling of the facial nerve. The facial nerve controls muscles on the side of the face that is affected. The facial nerve also controls the flow of tears and the ability to taste. There are two facial nerves, one on each side. Bell’s Palsy only affects one facial nerve.

 

The exact cause of the swelling is not known, but some doctors believe that a virus like the one that causes cold sores may play a role. Other diseases can affect the facial nerve, but these diseases usually have other symptoms that don’t occur with Bell’s palsy.

 

 

Treatment usually includes steroid pills (such as prednisone). In the recent past an antiviral drug was also prescribed. A recent article concerning the treatment of Bell’s palsy has not shown that the addition of the antiviral drug adds anything to the steroids alone. So the most recent literature would support only the use of steroids. If you start taking these within the first three days of the start of symptoms of Bell’s palsy the chances of complete recovery are better.

 

 

The most common symptoms include a droopy eyelid, dry eye, or excessive tears on the side that the facial nerve is affected.  Facial paralysis on that side, twitching or weakness usually also occurs. One can also see drooping of the corner of the mouth, dry mouth, and impaired taste. 

 

 

First talk to your primary care provider. If symptoms develop of Bell’s palsy, see your doctor as soon as possible. It is important to tell the doctor’s appointment scheduler (Front Desk) that you feel that you have Bell’s palsy and you should be seen within the first three days of symptoms, as early treatment is important. Your doctor may also want to test you for other diseases that cause facial nerve problems.

 

The National Institutes of Health website has information about Bell’s palsy at http://www.ninds.hih.giv/disorders/bells/bells.htm.