Bell’s Palsy: Overview and Treatments

Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. It occurs when the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face, becomes inflamed, swollen, or compressed. This condition can occur at any age and the exact cause is often unknown, but it is sometimes associated with viral infections such as herpes simplex.

Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy:

• Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, making it difficult to close the eye or smile on that side.
• Drooping of the mouth.
• Drooling.
• Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear.
• Pain or discomfort around the jaw or behind the ear on the affected side.
• A decreased ability to taste.
• Changes in the amount of tears and saliva produced.