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Bell's Palsy

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

In Bell's palsy, one side of the face suddenly becomes paralyzed. The problem results from a swollen, irritated nerve that weakens facial muscles. Fortunately, it is not serious, and although complete healing may take many months, most people do get better.

Causes

Doctors are not sure why the nerve swells and becomes irritated, but they suspect the problem may be a disruption in the blood supply. Other possible causes include a virus, immune disease, or exposure to cold weather.

Signs/Symptoms

You'll feel a sudden weakness on one side of the face. You may begin drooling and feel pain behind the ear. You may not be able to move your mouth or the eye on the affected side of the head. Your face may look droopy; the affected eye may not close completely.

Care

To rule out other problems, the doctor may order an x-ray or CT scan (computer-assisted x-ray) of your head. You'll probably need medication to reduce swelling in the nerve and eyedrops to keep the affected eye from drying out.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • Be sure to use the prescribed medications exactly as directed.
  • If you cannot close your eyelid, wear wrap-around plastic goggles to protect the eye from dirt, dust, and dryness. At night, wear an eye patch or tape the eyelid shut.
  • Applying heat to the affected side helps relieve pain. Use an electric heating pad set on warm or a towel soaked in warm water, then wrung out. Apply the heat for 15 minutes, twice a day. Cover or close the eye during these treatments.
  • Use facial massage and exercises when muscle strength returns. Gently rub the muscles of the forehead, cheek, lip, and eye. Open and close the eye, wink, and smile wide. Do these exercises for 15 or 20 minutes several times a day.
  • You may perform your normal activities. Rest does not help Bell's palsy.

Seek Care Immediately If...

  • Your eye stays red and irritated or becomes more painful.
  • You cannot stop drooling.
  • You develop a high temperature.
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