About
Causes
symptoms
diagnosis
faqAbout
What is Bell’s palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a condition that results in paralysis (weakness) of the muscles on one side of the face due to inflammation or damage to the facial nerve. The weakness usually progresses over a few days (in contrast to stroke, where the weakness is at its worst at symptom onset). The muscles which control eyelid opening and closing are also affected, often resulting in eye dryness and irritation.
The exact cause of Bell’s palsy remains unclear. It is often associated with viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus. Bell’s Palsy affects individuals of all ages, most commonly occurring in people between the ages of 15 and 60.
With prompt and appropriate treatment, individuals with Bell’s Palsy can experience significant recovery.
Causes
Causes and risk factors of Bell’s palsy
While the precise cause of Bell’s Palsy remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to its development.
Viral infections, such as the herpes simplex virus, have been strongly associated with the onset of this condition.
Other risk factors include:
- Family history of Bell’s Palsy
- Recent upper respiratory tract infection
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders
- Facial nerve injury
Symptoms
Symptoms of Bell's palsy
The primary symptom of Bell’s palsy is paralysis on one side of the face. This may be preceded by facial pain (around the jaw or behind the ear on the same side) in some individuals.
Other common symptoms include:
- Difficulty closing the eye or blinking
- Drooling
- Loss of taste
- Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear
The severity of symptoms can vary from mild to complete paralysis.
Symptoms of Bell’s palsy include sensitivity to sound in one ear and pain around the jaw area.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Bell’s palsy
Diagnosing Bell’s Palsy involves a thorough examination of the patient’s medical history and a comprehensive physical examination.The healthcare provider may also perform additional tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and imaging studies, to rule out other potential causes of facial paralysis.
Treatment
Bell's palsy disease treatment options
Bell’s Palsy is a condition that requires specialised treatment to minimise symptoms, expedite recovery, and prevent long-term complications. The treatment approach typically focuses on reducing inflammation, promoting nerve regeneration, and managing associated symptoms such as eye dryness and irritation.
Treatment may include:
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids, can help reduce inflammation and promote nerve recovery.
- Physical Therapy: Facial exercises and massage techniques can improve muscle strength and restore facial movement.
- Eye Care: Protecting the affected eye from dryness and injury through lubricating eye drops, ointments, or patches is imperative.
- Nerve Stimulation: Techniques like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may be used to stimulate facial nerves and aid in recovery.
Rarely, further intervention is required, and may include:
- Facial Nerve Decompression: Consists of removing the bone that is compressing the facial nerve
- Facial Reanimation Surgery: Healthy muscle tissue (including its blood vessel and nerve supply) is removed from another area of the body, such as the leg, and implanted into the paralysed side of the face to assist with improving facial muscle movement.
Prognosis and Recovery
The prognosis for Bell’s Palsy is generally favourable, with most individuals experiencing significant recovery within three to six months. Prompt treatment and diligent follow-up care can significantly enhance the chances of successful recovery. While some patients may experience residual weakness or facial asymmetry, the majority regain full or near-full facial function.
Complications and follow-up care
Although rare, complications can arise from Bell’s Palsy, such as synkinesis (involuntary facial muscle movements) and contracture (permanent tightening of facial muscles). Inability to close the affected eye can also result in dry eye syndrome, irritation, excessive tearing, blurred vision and in some cases keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).
Conclusion
Conclusion
Bell’s Palsy is a condition resulting in facial paralysis which is temporary in the majority of cases.Prompt and appropriate treatment is crucial in promoting recovery and minimising long-term complications. By seeking specialised assistance and adhering to a personalised treatment plan, individuals can regain their facial function and restore their overall well-being.
Why Choose Us
Choose CURA Medical Specialists
for Bell's palsy treatment
Our experienced team at CURA Medical Specialists specialise in providing personalised, expert care for those with Neurologic conditions. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Meet our friendly and professional team
Dr. Hugh Stephen Winters
MBChB (Auckland) FRACP (Neurology) CCINR (Neurology)
Dr Hugh Stephen Winters is a highly trained interventional neurologist, skilled at minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat stroke, idiopathic intracranial hypertension and aneurysms.
Dr. Timothy Ang
MBBS, FRACP (Neurology), Head of Committee for CCINR
Dr Timothy Ang is a highly skilled interventional neurologist who uses cutting-edge medical imaging to diagnose and treat neurovascular and neurological diseases, including stroke, intracranial hypertension, headache, migraine and aneurysms.
Dr. Kartik Bhatia
MBBS, BMedSci (Hons), MS, PhD, FRANZCR, CCINR
Dr Kartik Bhatia is an interventional neuroradiologist who treats both children and adults.
Dr. Christopher Blair
BSc (Hons I), MBBS (Hons I), DPhil (York), FRACP
Dr Christopher Blair having trained at both Royal Prince Alfred and Liverpool Hospitals Chris has gained rich experience in the treatment of all types of neurological disorders
FAQ
FAQs
For more information please read our most frequently asked questions:
What is the fastest way to recover from Bell's palsy?
Recovery time for Bell’s Palsy varies, but early intervention, appropriate treatment, and diligent follow-up care can help expedite the healing process.
Is Bell's palsy a mini-stroke?
No, Bell’s Palsy is not a mini-stroke; it is a condition characterised by temporary facial paralysis due to inflammation or damage to the facial nerve, often associated with viral infections.
Does Bell's palsy go away?
Yes, Bell’s Palsy typically goes away on its own over time, with most individuals experiencing significant improvement and regaining normal or near-normal facial function.
Is Bell's palsy a serious condition?
Bell’s Palsy is generally not considered a serious condition in terms of life-threatening risks, but it can have a significant emotional impact, and complications such as involuntary facial movements or contracture may occur in rare cases.
What is the role of the facial nerve in Bell's Palsy?
The facial nerve is the primary nerve affected by Bell’s Palsy. It controls the movement of the facial muscles and plays a crucial role in facial expressions. In Bell’s Palsy, inflammation or damage to the facial nerve leads to facial weakness or paralysis.
How is the eye affected in Bell's Palsy?
In Bell’s Palsy, facial muscle weakness can affect the eye’s ability to close properly, leading to dryness, irritation, and blurred vision. In severe cases, keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) may occur which can lead to visual impairment.
What is the recommended treatment for watery eyes in Bell's Palsy?
Lubricating eye drops or ointment (with the addition of an eye patch) are sufficient in the majority of cases. Temporary punctal occlusion (blocking the tear drainage ducts) can be performed to help manage excessive tearing in select cases.
How long does facial paralysis typically last in Bell's Palsy?
The duration of facial paralysis in Bell’s Palsy can vary from individual to individual. In most cases, significant recovery occurs within three to six months.
Can facial palsy be caused by conditions other than Bell's Palsy?
Yes, facial nerve palsy can be caused by a number of conditions other than Bell’s Palsy, including trauma or injury to the facial nerve, tumours, infections, autoimmune disorders, and other neurological conditions.
Contact Us
How to book an appointment with us
Please book your appointment with CURA Medical Specialists using one of the following convenient options:
Online Marketing For Doctors