Bell’s Palsy

One day about 4-5 years ago, I was visiting with my other sister and noticed something quite odd and disturbing. The right side of her face was drooping as if someone had given her a shot of Novocaine.  She didn’t know what was going on. She told me that she woke up that morning and she couldn’t feel anything on her face, and that side of her face was drooping. She had tears streaming down, not because she was crying but because of this unknown condition. Later, she would be told that she had developed Bell’s Palsy

What is It?

It is a condition that occurs when the nerve controlling facial muscles is compressed or swollen. This can be attributed to different factors, one of the most common, the herpes simplex virus. Bell’s Palsy usually clears up in a month. However, sometimes it lingers. My sister tells me she still feels some of the effects today.

Who is affected?

• It can occur at any age, but usually between the ages of: 16-59 yrs.
• 40,000 Americans develop it every year. 20-30 cases per 100,000 people worldwide

Symptoms

• Sudden paralysis or weakness on one side of the face
• Facial droop. Difficulty making facial expressions
• Possible pain behind or front of ear on affected side.
• Headache
• Loss of Taste
• Increased saliva or tear drops

Who’s At Risk?

• Pregnant People
• People with the flu or cold
• People with Diabetes

Tests

There is no definitive way to diagnose Bell’s Palsy. Though some of the standard tests, such as X-rays or MRIs may given for other possible causes such as a stroke. Sometimes other conditions can mimic the symptoms of Bells Palsy.

Treatment

• Drugs like Prednisone, an anti-inflammatory agent can help
• Antiviral drugs
• Physical Therapy
• Surgery

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