Why do you get bell palsy

It may result when a virus, usually the herpes virus, inflames the nerve. This is the same virus that causes cold sores and genital herpes. Links have been found between migraine and facial and limb weakness. Treatment with a hormone called prednisolone can speed up recovery. A study found that prednisolone, if administered within 72 hours of onset, can significantly reduce symptom severity and incidence after 12 months. This steroid reduces inflammation. This helps accelerate the recovery of the affected nerve.

Prednisolone prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. If the patient feels dizzy or drowsy they should refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery. As this symptom may not appear straight away, it is advisable to wait a day before driving or operating machinery.

Doctors usually reduce the dose gradually towards the end of the course of steroid medication. This helps prevent withdrawal symptoms, such as vomiting or tiredness.

If the patient is not blinking properly the eye will be exposed and tears will evaporate. Some patients will experience a reduction in tear production. Both may increase the risk of damage or infection in the eye. The doctor may prescribe artificial tears in the form of eye drops and also an ointment.

The eye drops are usually taken during the waking hours, while the ointment is applied before going to sleep. Patients who cannot close their eye properly during sleep will need to use surgical tape to keep it shut. Patients who experience worsening eye symptoms should seek medical help immediately. If you cannot get hold of your doctor, go the emergency department of your nearest hospital. In some cases, an antiviral, such as acyclovir may be taken alongside prednisolone; however, evidence that they can help is weak.

Facial exercises : As the facial nerve begins to recover, tightening and relaxing facial muscles can help strengthen them. You may have difficulty smiling or closing your eye on the affected side. They usually appear abruptly, and you may notice them when you wake up in the morning or when you try to eat or drink. Call your doctor immediately if you develop any of these symptoms. The symptoms can be similar to those of other serious conditions, such as a stroke or brain tumor.

Your doctor will first perform a physical examination to determine the extent of the weakness in your facial muscles. These tests may include blood tests to check for the presence of a bacterial or viral infection.

However, it can take several weeks or months for the muscles in your face to regain their normal strength. These include the following:. How is it diagnosed? How is it treated? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Where can I get more information?

Bell's palsy, also known as idiopathic facial palsy, is a form of temporary facial paralysis or weakness on one side of the face. It results from dysfunction of cranial nerve VII facial nerve which directs the muscles on one side of the face, including those that control eye blinking and closing and facial expressions such as smiling.

There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves, identified by Roman numerals. The facial nerve also carries nerve impulses to the tear glands, the saliva glands, and the muscles of a small bone in the middle of the ear.

The facial nerve also transmits taste sensations from the tongue. Bell's palsy is the most common cause of facial paralysis, although its exact cause is unknown. Generally, Bell's palsy affects only one side of the face; however, in rare cases, it can affect both sides. Symptoms appear suddenly over a 48 - hour period and generally start to improve with or without treatment after a few weeks, with recovery of some or all facial function within six months.

In some cases, residual muscle weakness lasts longer or may be permanent. Because the facial nerve has so many functions and is so complex, damage to the nerve or a disruption in its function can lead to many problems. Symptoms of Bell's palsy can vary from person to person and range in severity from mild weakness to total paralysis. In order to confirm the diagnosis the doctor may undertake the following:. The treatment used will depend upon the apparent cause and severity of the condition.

Corticosteroid medications, such as prednisone, are often given to help reduce inflammation in the nerve. These are most effective when given early in the course of the condition. Some medical research has shown that antiviral medications, or a combination of a corticosteroid and an antiviral medication, may also help to speed recovery.

The eye needs to be protected and kept moist in order to prevent damage to the cornea the lining of the eye. This will usually involve the use of artificial tears to lubricate the eye. Taping the eye shut overnight may also be suggested. Surgery to relieve compression of the facial nerve may be considered in severe, prolonged cases. However, this kind of surgery is used rarely as it carries a high risk of nerve damage.