Bell’s palsy: What is it? Who gets it? Risk factors and symptoms to look for!

Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of facial paralysis.

New Delhi: Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes a temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles in one side of the face.

This form of of temporary facial paralysis can be a result of the cranial nerve, the facial nerve, that controls your facial muscles becomes inflamed, swollen, or compressed. Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of facial paralysis.

Symptoms

Symptoms can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe -

• Muscle twitching
• Weakness
• Paralysis on one or rarely both sides of the face
• Dry eye and mouth
• Difficulty eating and drinking
• Drooping of the eye lid
• Change in taste
• Pain around the ear
• Increased sensitivity to sound

The symptoms of Bell’s palsy can develop quickly and reach their peak within 48 hours.

Facial weakness or paralysis can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a stroke, apart from being a symptom of Bell’s palsy.

Therefore, you should visit or call your doctor immediately if you or someone in your family develops any of these symptoms.

Doctors said 80 per cent of patients recover within 6 months, if treated properly and on time. Physical therapy can help prevent muscles from permanently contracting.

Risk factors

While the cause of Bell's palsy is unknown, risk factors include diabetes, HIV, a recent upper respiratory tract infection, a family history of the condition. The condition is also more common in pregnant women. Bell's palsy can affect anyone, but it's most common in people aged 15-60.