Bell's Palsy
Common ConditionSudden weakness of facial muscles on one side, usually temporary. Prompt treatment improves recovery.
Related specialists:Neurologist
Symptoms
Sudden weakness on one side of face
Drooping of mouth
Difficulty closing eye on affected side
Drooling
Pain around jaw or ear
Increased sensitivity to sound
Headache
Loss of taste
Decreased tearing
Onset over hours to days
Causes
1
Viral infection (herpes simplex most common)2
Inflammation of facial nerve3
Exact cause often unknown4
Diabetes increases risk5
Pregnancy (third trimester)6
Respiratory infections7
Immune system response8
Lyme disease9
Stress may play role10
Cold exposure (debated)Treatments
Corticosteroids (start early)
Antiviral medications (sometimes)
Eye protection (drops, patches)
Physical therapy
Facial exercises
Most recover without treatment
Surgery rarely needed
Acupuncture (some evidence)
Electrical stimulation
Time (usually weeks to months)
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor immediately for sudden facial weakness to rule out stroke and start treatment. Steroid treatment is most effective if started within 72 hours.
Find a Specialist NowAbout Bell's Palsy
Bell's Palsy: Usually Temporary, Treatment Helps
Bell's palsy is sudden facial weakness that's alarming but usually temporary. Most people recover fully within weeks to months. Starting steroids early improves outcomes.
"Ang Bell's palsy ay karaniwang gumagaling—huwag mataranta, magpatingin agad."
Specialists Who Commonly Treat Bell's Palsy
Based on related specialties
