Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes partial or complete weakness of one side of the face.
Symptoms of Bell’s palsy usually improve on their own within a few months.
Corticosteroids are typically prescribed to optimize a person’s chance for a full recovery.
Verywell / JR Bee
Bell’s palsy affects one side of the face.
Lastly, some people with Bells palsy experience ear discomfort with loud noises (i.e., hyperacusis).
For most people, symptoms of Bells palsy resolve within two weeks to a few months.
It is aperipheral neuropathy(nerve disease) of thefacial nerve, which is the seventh cranial nerve.
This nerve comes off the brain stem and controls facial movement.
Diagnosis
Bell’s palsy is usually diagnosed based on a person’s symptoms and a physical exam.
Some of these possibilities are very serious, so referral to aneurologistor otolaryngologist as soon as possible is warranted.
The following are some tests that might be done.
Much of the time, weakness of one side the face turns out to be Bell’s palsy.
Eye Care
One major concern associated with Bell’s palsy is the affected eye.
This is why those with Bell’s palsy should useartificial tears, which are available over the counter.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend using an eye patch at night to prevent irritation.
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