What is Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis resulting from damage or trauma to one of the facial nerves.  It is the most common cause of facial paralysis.

The condition is named for Sir Charles Bell, a Scottish surgeon who studied the nerve and its innervation of the facial muscles 200 years ago.

Bells palsy is not as uncommon as is generally believed. Worldwide statistics set the frequency at approximately .02% of the population (with geographical variations). In human terms this is 1 of every 5000 people, and 40,000 Americans every year.

Treatments

• Recent studies have shown that steroids such as prednisone — used to reduce inflammation and swelling — are an effective treatment for Bell’s palsy
• Other drugs such as acyclovir — used to fight viral herpes infections — may also have some benefit in shortening the course of the disease
• Analgesics such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen may relieve pain
• Because of possible drug interactions, individuals should always talk to their doctors before taking any over-the-counter medicines
• Keeping the eye moist and protecting it from debris and injury, especially at night, is important
• Physical therapy to stimulate the facial nerve and help maintain muscle tone may benefit some individuals.