Bell’s Palsy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s palsy is a sudden weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. This condition happens when the facial nerve, which controls facial movement, becomes inflamed. As a result, one side of the face may droop or feel stiff. Bell’s palsy can affect anyone, but it is most common in people between 15 and 60 years old. Although it can be scary, most people recover fully with proper care. According to the CDC, Bell’s palsy is not life-threatening, but early treatment can help improve recovery.

Common Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy

Symptoms of Bell’s palsy often appear suddenly. Usually, they reach their peak within 48 hours. Although the symptoms can vary, the most common signs include:

Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face

Drooping of the mouth or eyelid

Loss of ability to close the eye on the affected side

Loss of facial expression, such as smiling or frowning

Drooling due to weak mouth muscles

Loss of taste on the front part of the tongue

Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear

Tearing or dryness in the affected eye

Sometimes, people may also feel pain around the jaw or behind the ear. However, these symptoms usually improve over time.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of Bell’s palsy. However, many experts believe it is linked to viral infections. For example, the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, may play a role. When this virus becomes active, it can cause swelling in the facial nerve. This swelling leads to the symptoms of Bell’s palsy.

Other risk factors include:

Having diabetes

Being pregnant, especially in the third trimester

Having a family history of Bell’s palsy

Recent upper respiratory infections, such as a cold or flu

Although anyone can get Bell’s palsy, these factors may increase your risk.

How Bell’s Palsy is Diagnosed

Doctors diagnose Bell’s palsy by looking at your symptoms and medical history. First, your doctor will ask about when your symptoms started and how they have changed. Next, they will do a physical exam to check your facial muscles. Sometimes, doctors may order tests to rule out other causes of facial paralysis. These tests may include:

Blood tests to check for infections or other conditions

Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to look at the facial nerve

Electromyography (EMG) to measure nerve activity

However, most cases are diagnosed based on symptoms alone. Early diagnosis helps start Bell’s palsy treatment sooner.

Treatment Options for Bell’s Palsy

Most people with Bell’s palsy recover fully, often within three to six months. Early treatment can help speed up recovery and reduce the risk of long-term problems. Common Bell’s palsy treatment options include:

Medications: Doctors often prescribe corticosteroids to reduce swelling in the facial nerve. Sometimes, antiviral drugs are added if a virus is suspected.

Eye care: Because you may not be able to close your eye, it is important to keep it moist and protected. Use eye drops during the day and ointment at night. Wearing an eye patch can also help.

Physical therapy: Gentle facial exercises may help keep your muscles strong and improve movement.

Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort.

In rare cases, surgery may be needed if symptoms do not improve. However, most people get better without surgery.

Recovery and Lifestyle Tips

Recovery from Bell’s palsy varies for each person. Most people see improvement within a few weeks. However, full recovery may take several months. To help your recovery, try these tips:

Follow your doctor’s instructions for medications and eye care

Do gentle facial exercises as recommended by your therapist

Protect your eye from dust and dryness

Eat a healthy diet to support healing

Get enough rest and manage stress

Although recovery can be slow, staying positive and patient is important. Many people ask how to recover from Bell’s palsy quickly. While there is no instant cure, early treatment and self-care can help speed up the process.

Preventing Bell’s Palsy

There is no sure way to prevent Bell’s palsy. However, you can lower your risk by taking care of your overall health. For example, managing diabetes, avoiding viral infections, and reducing stress may help. Washing your hands often and avoiding close contact with sick people can also lower your risk of infections that may trigger Bell’s palsy.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice sudden weakness or drooping on one side of your face, see a doctor right away. Sometimes, these symptoms can be signs of a stroke or other serious conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for the best outcome. If you have trouble speaking, swallowing, or moving your arms or legs, call emergency services immediately.

For personalized advice on Bell’s palsy, consult Neha Shine Hospital. Early care can make a big difference in your recovery.