Bell's Palsy
What is Bell's Palsy?
Bell's palsy is a condition caused by damage or trauma to the seventh cranial nerve. It causes partial or complete paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. Other symptoms include a decreased ability to taste, decreased eyelid control, and an inability to create facial expressions on the affected side of the face.
Causes of Bell's Palsy
The cause of Bell's palsy is unknown. The condition may be related to infection, inflammation, and trauma to the facial nerve. It is most commonly associated with the herpes zoster virus, an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the virus that causes chicken pox, which can cause inflammation of the facial nerve.
Risk Factors for Bell's Palsy
Certain factors increase the risk of developing Bell's palsy. They include:
- A compromised immune system
- Diabetes
- A family history of Bell's palsy
- Advanced age
- Exposure to loud noises
Treatment of Bell's Palsy
Treatment for Bell's palsy depends on the severity of symptoms. Treatment may include steroid medications to reduce inflammation, antiviral medications, physical therapy to help improve facial movement, and acupuncture. Surgery may be recommended for severe cases or when the condition does not respond to other treatments. Early treatment is important to ensure the best possible outcome.