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Bell' s Palsy
Medical Questions » Bell' s Palsy
| Name: Bell' s Palsy |
| Also known as: |
| A form of neurology (nerve inflammation). |
Causes of Bell' s Palsy
Facial muscles are controlled by a nerve which comes out of a hole in the skull just below and in front of the ear. From there, it spreads like a fan across the face to each of the tiny muscles that control facial expressions. Inflammation of the nerve at the point where it leaves the skull causes the facial muscles to stop working. The exact reason for this inflammation is unknown. |
Symptoms of Bell' s Palsy
Sudden paralysis of the facial muscles on one side only. The patient can no longer smile or close the eye properly. There may be some mild to moderate pain at the point where the nerve leaves the skull beside the ear, but this settles after a few days. There may also be a disturbance to taste sensation. |
Tests for Bell' s Palsy
None diagnostic. |
Treatment for Bell' s Palsy
No treatment is necessary for most patients, but in the elderly, if the paralysis is total, or if there is severe pain, treatment with high doses of prednisone (a steroid) may be tried, provided it is started within five days of onset.
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Complications of Bell' s Palsy of its treatment
10% of patients are significantly affected long term by facial paralysis. Rarely crocodile tears syndrome occurs (see separate entry). |
Likely Outcome of Bell' s Palsy
Two thirds of patients recover completely within a few weeks with no treatment, while most of the others obtain almost complete recovery. |
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