What is Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis resulting from damage or trauma to the facial nerves. The facial nerve is also called like the 7th cranial nerve travels through a narrow, bony canal called ( The Fallopian canal ). Bell’s palsy is named for Sir Charles Bell.

A 19th century scottish surgeon who described the facial nerve and its connection to the condition. Generally, Bell’s palsy affects only one of the paired facial nerves and one side other face, however, in rare cases, it can affect both sides. Because the facial nerve has so many functions and is so complex, damage to the nerve or a disruption in its function can lead to many problems.

Symptoms of Bell’s palsy can vary from person to person and range in severity from mild weakness to total paralysis. These symptoms may include twitching, weakness,or paralysis on one or rarely both sides of the face. Other symptoms may include drooling, dryness of the eye or mouth, impairment of taste, and excessive tearing in one eye. Bell’s palsy occurs when the nerve that controls the facial weakness or paralysis. Exactly what causes this damage, however, is unknown.

The pain areas are in the ears. Bell’s palsy afflicts approximately 40,000 Americans each year. It affects men and women equally and can occur at any age, but it is less common before age 15 or after age 60. It disproportionately attacks people who have diabetes or upper respiratory ailments such as the flu or a cold.

A diagnosis of Bell’s palsy is made based on clinical presentation, including a distorted facial appearance and the inability to move muscles on the affected side of the face- and by ruling out others possible causes of facial paralysis. There is no specific laboratory test to confirm diagnosis of the disorder. Bell’s palsy affects each individual differently. Some cases are mild and do not require treatment as the symptoms usually subside on their own within 2 weeks. For others, treatment may include medications and other therapeutic options. Bell’s palsy usually resolves on its own within six months.

Physical therapy can help prevent muscles from permanently contracting. There’s no specific test for Bell’s palsy. The cause for Bell’s palsy is yet unknown. Your doctor will only look at your face and ask you to move your facial muscles by closing your eyes, lifting your brow, showing your teeth and frowning, among other movements.