Facing the Issue: Everything You Need to Know About Bell’s Palsy

The human face is a marvel. It houses 42 muscles and multiple nerve endings, and it is the primary information-gathering center of four of our five senses. We don’t realize how important our faces are in our daily lives, though we use it to see, hear, speak, and even communicate non-verbally. That’s why it can be so scary when something disrupts the way it works. Bell’s Palsy is one such disease. It is a  condition that causes sudden, temporary paralysis to your facial muscles. An attack can cause one side of your face to droop, and make it difficult to smile or close one eye. An attack can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Luckily, if you have this condition there are ways to live a full and happy life. Let’s take a closer look at Bell’s Palsy, its symptoms, causes, and treatment at the best rehabilitation center in Bangalore. 

Causes of Bell’s Palsy

Physiologically, Bell’s Palsy occurs due to damage and inflammation of facial nerves. This restricts the flow of blood and oxygen and also makes it difficult for the facial nerves and muscles to communicate with the brain, resulting in paralysis. However, no one is sure what makes a person susceptible to this damage. Current research shows that there is some link to previous viral infections. You may be more likely to develop Bell’s Palsy if you’ve had:

• Chickenpox or shingles
• Cold sores or genital herpes (herpes simplex)
• Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis)
• Mumps
• Measles
• Hand-foot-and-mouth disease
• Autoimmune diseases such as HIV

Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy is often a sudden onset disease, so the signs and symptoms may occur with no warning. Signs and symptoms of Bell’s Palsy include:

 

• Rapid onset of mild weakness or even total paralysis on one side of the face — usually over hours or even days
• Facial droop and difficulty making facial expressions such as closing one eye or smiling
• Drooling
• Pain behind the ear or around the jaw on the affected side
• Increased sensitivity to sound on the affected side
• Headache
• Loss of taste
• Dry eye or mouth

Because the symptoms of Bell’s Palsy are so similar to other medical conditions such as a stroke, you shouldn’t try to self diagnose. If you experience any of the above symptoms, try and see a doctor as soon as possible. They will help uncover the underlying cause and set you on the right path for treatment.

Treatment for Bell’s Palsy

Once your doctor has determined that the cause of the symptoms is Bell’s Palsy and not some other condition, there are various treatment options available. In some cases, a patient may even make a full recovery without any outside treatment. But if you do require some help, here are your options:

• Corticosteroids — medication that works as an anti-inflammatory agent
• Antiviral medication — medication that helps fight any underlying viral causes. Though they don’t do much on their own, many people have seen improvement when part of a complete medication plan
• Physical therapy — paralysis can cause the muscles in the face to shrink, making facial movement difficult both during and after an attack. Physiotherapy can help the body strengthen those muscles and relearn how to use them

Wrapping Up!

If you or your loved one suffers from Bell’s Palsy it’s important to remember that although the symptoms can be frightening, they can be treated in the long term. All you need to do is — seek consultation from the best rehabilitation center in Bangalore and follow your doctor’s advice. Remember that it’s not too late to get help!