Bell's Palsy

Bell's palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis resulting from a dysfunction of the cranial nerve VII (the facial nerve), which controls the muscles on one side of the face. This nerve damage can cause that side of the face to droop or become stiff. The specific cause of Bell's palsy is unknown, but it is often associated with viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus, which may lead to inflammation and swelling of the facial nerve. Symptoms typically come on quickly and might include sudden weakness, drooping of the eyelid or corner of the mouth, loss of the ability to taste, increased sensitivity to sound on the affected side, and sometimes pain around the jaw or behind the ear on the affected side.

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance and rapid onset of symptoms. Bell's palsy affects about 1 in 5,000 people annually and can affect all age groups and both genders equally. Though the condition often resolves on its own without treatment, recovery can vary from weeks to months. Therapies such as corticosteroids or antiviral medications are sometimes prescribed to reduce inflammation and aid recovery. In most cases, patients recover fully with minimal or no lasting effects, but a small percentage may experience residual muscle weakness or other long-term complications.