Symptoms
- Sudden drooping of one side of the face
- Inability to close the eye or smile
- Drooling or difficulty eating
- Altered taste or ear discomfort
Condition
Bell's Palsy
Sudden facial weakness — treat early for best recovery.
Overview
Bell's palsy is a sudden weakness of one side of the face due to inflammation of the facial nerve. Early treatment greatly improves the chance of full recovery, and it must be distinguished from stroke.
Diagnosis
- Clinical examination to exclude stroke
- Assessment of facial nerve function
Treatment
- Early steroid treatment
- Eye protection and lubrication
- Facial physiotherapy
Bell's Palsy — FAQs
Most people recover fully, especially when treatment begins early. Recovery may take several weeks.