Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes paralysis of the face as it affects the nerves and muscles on one side of the face. This condition occurs when the nerve that controls facial muscles swells and becomes inflamed or compressed. Bell’s Palsy is the most common cause of facial paralysis. Bell’s Palsy is usually a temporary condition. While there may be no link between Bell’s Palsy and stroke, any sudden weakness that occurs on one side of the face should be checked by a doctor immediately.
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Facial weakness can affect one’s ability to eat, drink, and form everyday facial expressions. In addition, if the face is partially or fully paralysed, one may have difficulty closing one eye, leaving the eye vulnerable during sleep. Some sufferers may also experience drooling from the side of the mouth.
Symptoms & Causes of Bell’s Palsy
The exact symptoms of Bell’s palsy vary by patient, but the main symptom is facial paralysis. Other symptoms may be present due to the complex function of the facial nerves.
The symptoms of Bell’s palsy include:
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Slurred speech
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Sagging eyebrow
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Difficulty in closing the eye
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Drooping mouth on one side
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Dryness or watering of the affected eye
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A turned-out lower eyelid
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Sensitivity to sound on the affected side
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Headache and pain just behind the ear (many patients experience these first symptoms as a sign of an incipient case)
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The causes of Bell’s Palsy are unknown. However, it is thought that Bell’s Palsy may be linked to the cold sore virus because this virus can lie dormant on one of the facial nerves and then reactivate later. In addition, other viruses such as chickenpox and shingles can also trigger Bell’s Palsy.
Treatment for Bell’s Palsy
Our physiotherapists at Fizo Kare Physiotherapy Centre can treat Bell's Palsy by helping stimulate the facial nerves, maintain muscle tone, strengthen the facial muscles, and resolve the muscular balance.