Overview
Bell’s Palsy is a neurological condition resulting from inflammation of the seventh cranial nerve, causing primarily one side weakness of the face. This is because cranial nerve seven controls facial movement including, not limited to, tear production, sensation and saliva. When this nerve is inflamed, it hinders its functions resulting in the typical symptoms of one sided weakness. Bell’s palsy progression is rapidly and often overnight which can lead to added stress and anxiety to those who suffer. Fortunately, with the proper treatment, it can be resolved within weeks to months.
Who it Affects
- Typical onset of symptoms: 15-45, however it can present at any age
- Gender: Males and females are equally effected
- Early onset: Sudden facial weakness, pain behind ear or jaw, one-sided facial drooping, inability to fully blink
- Prevalence: About 1 in 60 people in their lifetime
Symptoms
Facial
- Sudden facial weakness
- Inability to fully blink
- Drooling
- Drooping of mouth or inability to fully smile
- Can have disordered speech due to weak facial muscles
Non-Motor (may appear years earlier)
- Pain behind ear or jaw
- Impaired tear or saliva production (mainly due to excess drooling)
- Reduced sensation of touch and taste on the side of weakness
- Stress or anxiety
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or if you have been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.
Causes
Bell’s Palsy is caused due to inflammation or compression of the seventh cranial nerve. THe causes of inflammation or compression vary and there is no specific cause. However, the majority of cases are due to viral infections, immune-related inflammation, stress to the nerve, and etc. Inflammation around the nerve or the canal can indirectly cause the nerve to be harmed leading to Bell’s Palsy
Most cases have no clear cause, which is why it’s important to know early signs and symptoms for early detection and treatment. Bell’s Palsy is not caused by stroke and it is not contiguous.
Diagnosis
There’s no single test for Bell’s Palsy, however there are symptoms that can lead to a definitive diagnosis. Physicians rely on medical history, the rapidness of onset symptoms and neurological examinations for diagnosis. Also some physicians might test white blood cell counts for increased inflammation, symptoms mainly present rather quickly. This puts an emphasis on early detection and knowing the signs.
Treatment
Bell’s Palsy treatment mainly targets reducing nerve inflammation or removing compression. The recovery time is typically around 2-3 weeks and fortunately full recovery is common for many patients.
Medication
○ Corticosteroids: This is the main treatment for Bell’s Palsy. It works to target inflammation. However best results are seen when administered within 72 hours from onset of symptoms.
○ Antivirals: This is used for cases where the inflammation or compression of the seventh nerve is from a viral infection.
Eye protection: Since one of the symptoms is inability to fully blink, dry eyes is common in patients. Tear drops help to reduce dry eyes.
○ Artificial tear drops
○ Eye lubricates
○ Eye patch
Therapies: Physical therapy can help in regain facial movement and muscles. This is consistent with facial massages and care. .
Lifestyle approaches: Staying active, hydrated, proper rest and stress free can dramatically aid in Bell’s Palsy.
Living With Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s Palsy can look different for everyone, so it’s important to be thoughtful of each case. It can seem scary and daunting at first since symptoms appear often rapidly. However, with proper treatment (especially within 72 hours), a full recovery is typically expected. The timeline of recovery can look different for everyone. Some might deal with more facial weakness than others. This is where supportive care and consistent follow-up with neurologists and physicians plays a huge role.
Your Role as a Caregiver
Caring for someone with Bell’s Palsy means being supportive in the physical recovery as well as the mental. Facial expression is a big part of people’s identity, and it can be stressful when it’s hindered or injured. A caregiver can help in eye care, including aiding in tear drops and eye patch placement. A caregiver can also aid in preparing easy to chew foods. Since there’s one-sided weakness, a patient’s ability to fully chew hard foods can become a difficult task. Helping in the preparation of soft, nutritious foods can go a long way in recovery. Lastly, joining support groups also prove to be beneficial. Being hopeful and supporting each other during a difficult time can aid in reducing stress that comes with Bell’s Palsy.