Bell's Palsy (Half-Face Paralysis)

     Bell's Palsy is a condition where one side of the face droops, causing symptoms such as eyelid and mouth corner drooping, drooling from the corner of the mouth, and an inability to smile on the affected side. This occurs due to inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve, which controls facial muscles, causing them to stop functioning and leading to facial muscle weakness on one side.

Symptoms

• Initially, there may be pain around the front or back of the ear for 1-2 days.
• Paralysis of the facial muscles on one side, with reduced ability to close the eye or raise the eyebrow on that side, and incomplete eyelid closure during sleep, leading to dryness in the eye.
• A feeling of tightness or heaviness on the affected side of the face.
• A ringing sound in the affected ear, or ear congestion.
• Sometimes, there may be numbness of the tongue.

Causes of Bell's Palsy

     The Evidences suggest that inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve is often caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can lead to cold sores in the mouth and genital areas. Other possible causes include the herpes zoster virus (shingles), cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus. Inflammation can cause swelling of the nerve, preventing small blood vessels from supplying blood to the nerve, which in turn impairs the nerve's ability to control facial muscles responsible for smiling or closing the eye.

The Diagnosis of Bell's Palsy

     The diagnosis of Bell's Palsy physical examination by a specialized doctor is essential for diagnosis. If symptoms persist for more than 2 months without improvement, an MRI scan may be necessary to rule out tumors. However, most cases of Bell's Palsy resolve within 2 months, with only a few cases remaining incomplete or rarely recurring.

Treatment for Bell's Palsy

• Steroid anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling of the nerve.
• Antiviral medication if there are signs of a herpes zoster infection.
• Physical therapy, such as electrical nerve stimulation or facial massage, to reduce muscle stiffness.
• Symptomatic treatments, including artificial tears and ointment for the eyes to prevent corneal damage, or vitamin supplements to support eye health.

The Side Effects

Side Effects of Treatment for Bell's Palsy After recovery from Bell's Palsy, some patients may still experience facial muscle weakness on the affected side. Occasionally, nerve dysfunction may occur, but this is uncommon. Symptoms may include:

• Twitching at the corner of the mouth when blinking.
• Eyelid drooping when smiling.
• Tearing when chewing on the affected side of the face. If these symptoms occur, patients should return to the doctor immediately.

Self-Care After Bell's Palsy

• Patients with diabetes should maintain normal blood sugar levels.
• Avoid alcohol consumption.
• If eyelids do not close completely, wear protective glasses to prevent dry eyes and corneal damage.
• Perform facial muscle exercises, such as raising the eyebrows, tightly closing the eyes, puckering the lips, and smiling.

Bell's Palsy can occur in both men and women of any age, especially in diabetic patients. If symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention promptly and avoid unproven treatments, as incorrect treatment may worsen the condition.