Therapy and Treatment for Bell's Palsy

QUESTION: It is one of the most frightening things that has ever happened to
me. The whole left side of my face has fallen down, and I can't even smile.
My doctor has diagnosed this as a bell palsy, and assures me that I'll soon be
better, but I need more information. Will you please help me?
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ANSWER: When an entire half side of a face suddenly becomes weak and
unresponsive, the most common cause is "Bell's Palsy", the result of pressure
on the facial nerve. Although the cause is unknown, it is felt to be a viral
or immune disease in which the facial nerve swells within the ear bone,
causing a pressure which damages the nerve. A number of tests are usually
performed to assure an accurate diagnosis, including a hearing test, a balance
test, a taste test, x-rays to locate infections, tumors or other abnormalities
in the bone, and an electrical test to check the function of the nerve. Once
all of these have been carefully performed, the diagnosis of Bell's is
relatively easy. And in many cases, so is the treatment, for complete
recovery within several months invariably follows partial facial paralysis.
However, physical therapy to maintain the tone of the affected muscles is
often recommended. Since the ability of the eye to blink is affected, the
cornea of the eye may become dry from lack of lubrication, and develop an
ulcer. Closing the eyelid with your finger from time to time can help, and
the frequent use of artificial tears may also be recommended. It may be
necessary to place a patch on the eye temporarily to protect the delicate
corneal tissue, and the use of glasses to prevent dust particles from blowing
into an eye unprotected by a blink reflex is also a good tip. Remain calm,
and the chances are you will be back to yourself in a few months.