Understanding Bell's Palsy
Characterized by the weakening and in some cases, paralysis of the facial muscles, Bell's palsy is a medical condition, which is usually the result of severe trauma to the seventh cranial nerve. Although the condition is alarming, it is not permanent.
Discovered by the Scottish surgeon, Sir Charles Bell 200 years ago, Bell's palsy affects nearly 1 out of 5000 people. In the United States, 40,000 individuals are diagnosed with the disorder.
Causes
Bell's palsy is believed to be commonly caused by viral or bacterial infection and autoimmune disorders. The Herpes Simplex 1 virus is the organism that is said to be responsible for increasing a person's susceptibility to the medical condition. The general population has always been exposed to this virus but only those with weakened or compromised immune system can be infected. Other viruses that may trigger Bell's palsy include the rubella, Epstein-Barr, mumps and cytomegalovirus. Infection caused by bacteria can also increase likelihood of Bell's palsy. Illnesses such as Lyme disease and Otitis media can cause damage to the seventh cranial nerve. Diabetes, thyroid disease, Lupus, Congenital defects and Sjogren's syndrome are also major risk factors that should be considered. Blunt force trauma, bone fractures, tumors and surgical wounds can also result to temporary facial paralysis. Symptoms An individual suffering from Bell's palsy will usually experience paralysis on one side of the face only. However, 1% of those diagnosed with this medical condition are known to suffer from bilateral Bell's palsy. In this case, a thorough diagnosis is required. But aside from this, the condition should not affect any other parts of the body. The progress of Bell's palsy is different for each patient. Some wake up and find their faces already paralyzed while some show symptoms like tingling in the lip region and dry eyes. In most instances, neck pain is experienced before the onset of Bell's palsy. The average recovery period for Bell's palsy is 6-9 months. Of course, recovery is dependent on how severe the trauma to the cranial nerve was. If the trauma is mild then patients can expect recovery in a couple of days. On the other hand, recovery from severe trauma can last for an average of 18 months. Treatment After correctly diagnosing Bell's palsy, your physician will start the treatment by determining the exact source of the nerve damage. T is very important that treatment starts within 7 days from the onset of the disorder. Medications such as Prednisone can be prescribed to reduce the compression to the nerve. In addition to medication, the patient s advised to rest in order to fully recover from the condition. If the Bell's palsy is caused by infection, then your immune system should be given enough time to fight off the bacteria or virus. During this time, patients should help their body cope with the disease. Bell's palsy is treatable and manageable. If you need to learn more about this medical condition, then feel free to browse the entire site.
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