Bells Palsy: Bells Paralysis Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Bells palsy is a condition that leads to paralysis of facial muscles on one side or temporary weakness. It is not deadly but can cause physiological and physical stress to the affected individual. 

In rare cases, facial nerve paralysis can happen multiple times. It is usually caused by facial nerve inflammation. This may be due to viral infections. In case you face any kind of paralysis, get medical attention as soon as possible because you may be having a stroke. 

Symptoms of Bells Paralysis

The signs of bell’s palsy can differ from mild to severe. These may include:

• Total loss of potential to move one or both sides of the face. 
• Muscle twitching. 
• Change in taste.
• Ache around the ear or in the jaw on the affected side.
• Eyebrow drooping. 
• Trouble in eating, drinking, and speaking. 
• Excess eye tearing or dryness on the affected side. 
• Difficulty in smiling or closing eyes on the affected side.  

Causes of Bells Palsy | Bell’s Palsy Causes

The exact cause of the condition is unknown. However, there are some possible factors, including:

HELLP Syndrome

It is a serious form of preeclampsia affecting the liver, blood, and platelets. 

Infection Due to Herpes Simplex Virus

Infection caused by herpes simplex virus can be the cause behind Bells paralysis. It can lead to facial nerve inflammation. 

Preeclampsia

It is a condition that occurs in pregnancy, which causes swelling near the facial nerve and high blood pressure. 

Other Bacterial and Viral Infection

Facial paralsyis can also be caused by the common cold, Lyme disease or influenza. 

Bells Palsy Treatment

Here is how Bell’s palsy is treated: 

Eye Care

Using lubricating eye drops and eye ointments is the best way to keep the eye getting dry. Another effective solution is to wear goggles during the daytime and eye patches during the nighttime to shield eyes from getting scratched or poked. 

Physical Therapy

When facial muscles get paralyzed, they shorten or shrink. It results in permanent damage to the eyes. Receiving physical therapy is one of the effective ways to massage and exercise the facial muscles and prevent Bells palsy. 

Medicines

Few medications help patients with facial palsy. So, sometimes doctor recommends corticosteroids (like prednisone) and antivirals (like Zovirax or Valtrex). 

Surgery 

In rare cases, the doctor recommends surgery for bells palsy. Therefore, it is crucial to speak to your healthcare provider for a correct diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Acupuncture or Electrical Stimulation

The treatment of nerve palsy can also include electrical stimulation or acupuncture to boost the recovery of the nerve. 

Bells Palsy in Pregnancy

The primary cause of facial paralysis in pregnancy is Bell’s palsy. Usually, it can occur in any age group. However, pregnant ladies are more prone to developing it (mainly in the third trimester or immediately after delivery). Therefore, if you are pregnant or have other medical conditions, get medical treatment quickly. 

Justin Bieber Bell’s Palsy

Justin Bieber is a popular songwriter and singer worldwide. He has been diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. It is a rare condition that leads to paralysis on one side of the face. 

Ramsay hunt syndrome is typically caused by a similar virus that causes shingles and chicken pox. As per the recent update, Justin Bieber was still facing paralysis as of March 2023. 

Ways to Prevent Bells Palsy

The following steps can help you minimize the risk of Bells Nerve Palsy or prevent it:

• Manage stress by getting sufficient sleep and rest. 
• Receive vaccination for influenza and other preventable diseases.
• Look out for ways to shield your face from chilling weather conditions. 

• Do not get in touch with individuals struggling with cold sores or other infections.
• Keep up with a good hygiene. 
• Control your blood sugar and blood pressure (mainly if you have preeclampsia or diabetes). 

FAQ’s 

What is the Youngest Age for Bell’s Palsy?

As per one record, unilateral Bell’s paralysis occurs in an infant of age 1 month 4 days. 

Is Bell’s Palsy Permanent in Kids?

95% of kids with this condition completely receive without receiving any treatment. It means Bell’s Palsy is not permanent. 

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Bell’s Palsy?

The recovery time can differ depending on the response of an individual to the treatment and severity of the kids. Generally, numerous patients recover fully within 3 to 6 months (with or without treatment). But, few of them experience long-term or constant weakness or other complications. 

As per the National Health Service,, complete recovery from Bell’s palsy can take around 9 months in most cases. Remember, the treatment becomes successful when it starts within 72 hours. Thus, visit the doctor as soon as possible if you notice Bell’s palsy symptoms in your kid.