Definition:
Facial palsy or Bell's palsy is a temporary form of facial paralysis occurring when the nerve that controls movement of the muscles in the face are damaged.
Diagnosis:
Tests to diagnose facial palsy include blood test for sarcoidosis or lyme disease, magnetic resonance imaging, electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction test.
Treatment:
Treatment is usually aimed at relieving the symptoms. Using corcosteroids or antiviral medication may reduce swelling and relieve pressure of the facial nerve. Lubricating eye drops or eye ointments to protect the eye may also be recommended if the eyes cannot be closed completely. An eye patch may also be worn when sleeping.
Symptoms and Signs:
Facial palsy symptoms usually start suddenly and may range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include change in the facial expression, difficulty with eating and breathing, drooling, droopy eyelid or corner of mouth, dry eye or mouth, face feels stiff of pulled to one side, facial paralysis on one side of the face, headache, loss of sense of taste, pain behind or in front of the ear, sensitivity to sound and twitching in face.
Causes:
Facial palsy or Bell's palsy is believed to be linked to swelling of the nerve in the area where it travels through the bines of the skull. Also related to the condition are diabetes, lyme diseases, and sarcoidosis.
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