Bell's palsy

 Bell's palsy, also known as idiopathic facial palsy, is a form of temporary facial paralysis or weakness on one side of the face.

 It results from dysfunction of cranial nerve VII (facial nerve) which directs the muscles on one side of the face, including those that control eye blinking and closing and facial expressions such as smiling.  

SYMPTOMS

drooling

difficulty eating and drinking

an inability to make facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning

facial weakness

muscle twitches in the face

dry eye and mouth

headache

sensitivity to sound

DIAGNOSIS

Physical examination

CT scan

MRI

TREATMENT

◆MEDICATION

corticosteroid drugs, which reduce inflammation

antiviral or antibacterial medication, which may be prescribed if a virus or bacteria caused your Bell’s palsy.

.eye drop

◆HOME TREATMENT

an eye patch (for your dry eye)

a warm, moist towel over your face to relieve pain

facial massage

physical therapy exercises to stimulate your facial muscles