Bell's Palsy
Published on Nov 20, 2015
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PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Bells Palsy
Named for
Sir Charles Bell
The exact cause of Bells Palsy is unknown. It is, however, believed to be caused by damage or inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve that controls the muscles of the face.
Sudden weakness in facial muscles
Half the face appears to droop
Smile may be one-sided
Unable to close one eye
Photo by JD Hancock
Signs and Symptoms
Rapid onset of mild weakness to total paralysis on one side of the face.
Facial droop and difficulty making facial expressions.
Pain around the jaw or in or behind the ear of the affected side.
Increased sensitivity to sound on the affected side.
Headache
Decrease in the ability to taste
Changes in the amount of tears or saliva production
Photo by Ravages
Possible Causes
Herpes simplex (cold sores and genital herpes)
Herpes Zoster (chicken pox or shingles)
Mononucleosis
Cytomegalovirus infections
Respiratory illness
German measles
Mumps
Influenza B
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease
Photo by AJC1
No specific testing to diagnose Bells Palsy
Photo by Jeff Youngstrom
Doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid such as Prednisone to help reduce inflammation. They may also prescribe an antiviral such as Acyclovir or Valacyclovir to try to stop the virus.
Photo by Scott*
Bells Palsy usually starts getting better in two weeks. It can take up to 6 months for all symptoms to clear up.
Photo by Nina Matthews Photography
Possible complications of Bells Palsy
Irreversible damage to the 7th Cranial Nerve
Misdirected regrowth of nerve fibers.
Partial or complete blindness of the eye that won't close due to excessive dryness and scratching of the cornea.
Photo by kevin dooley
