What is Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s palsy, also known as idiopathic facial paralysis, is a condition in which muscles on one side of the face experience sudden and temporary weakness or paralysis. In other words, Bell’s palsy is a form of facial neuropathy – a disorder involving the nerves of the face. The condition can develop suddenly and can cause weakness on one side of the face, affecting the eye, forehead, cheeks and jaw muscles. Symptoms usually begin to improve in a few weeks.
While the cause of Bell’s palsy remains unknown, some researchers believe that it is caused by inflammation of the facial nerve due to a viral infection such as herpes zoster, which is the same virus responsible for shingles. Other theories include diabetes, Lyme disease, automatic immune responses and even physical trauma.
Where Does the Name Come From?
The condition was first described by Scottish physician Charles Bell in the early 19th century. Bell and other doctors observed that there was a relationship between trauma or infection in the lower face and sudden paralysis of the muscles of the upper and lower lips. Bell postulated that such paralysis was due to nerve damage, which was later proven true by neurologist Harry Pollock.
Bell’s palsy has been recognized as a distinct medical disorder since the 19th century, and the name has remained in place since then.
Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy
The primary symptom of Bell’s palsy is facial weakness or paralysis. This can cause problems like drooping on one side of the face, a slight drooping mouth, difficulty eating and drinking, eyelid drooping, and a lack of facial emotions. Other symptoms can include headaches, neck pain, dizziness, hearing loss in one ear and ringing in the ear on the same side as the facial paralysis.
Diagnosing and Treating Bell’s Palsy
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is advised to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor will likely perform tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan to confirm the diagnosis of Bell’s palsy.
Although Bell’s palsy is a temporary condition, treatment is necessary to reduce the symptoms and speed up recovery. Treatment may include a combination of facial exercises, medications to reduce inflammation and swelling, laser therapy and/or acupuncture.
In some cases, surgery may also be advised. When it comes to surgery, the goal is to reconnect or move muscle, tendons and/or other facial tissue in order to restore facial balance. Surgery may be done endoscopically or with a larger incision, depending on the extent of the nerve damage.
Conclusion
Although a full recovery from Bell’s palsy may take several weeks, most people with mild to moderate cases usually show signs of improvement within a few days of treatment. If you are suffering from Bell’s palsy, it is important to speak to your doctor about the best treatment options available to you.