Bells palsy: My husband woke up yesterday morning to find his face was paralysed on one side.
My husband woke up yesterday morning to find his face was paralysed on one side. I got such a fright I called for an ambulance as I thought he had had a stroke. In casualty we were much relieved to be told that it was Bells palsy. Although I've heard of other people getting it I don't know much about this condition, so can you fill me in?
Bells palsy is thought to be caused by a viral infection of the facial nerve. The nerve originates from the base of the brain and travels through a narrow bony tunnel within the skull, exiting behind the ear. It is thought that a virus, possibly the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores, may be responsible. When the nerve is irritated by the virus it becomes swollen and inflamed. As a result, the impulses travelling to the face are blocked leading to a weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles on one side of the face.
He is on steroid treatment but there has only been a slight improvement since starting on them. Will he recover fully?
The good news is that more than 90 per cent of patients make a full recovery. Treatment with steroids can help reduce the swelling around the nerve. Starting treatment early is essential and some improvement is usually seen within the first couple of days, followed by a gradual return to normal.
Is there any other treatment that would help his progress?
Yes. Intervention by a chartered physiotherapist will help enormously. Rehabilitation will include massage, and advice on oral and eye care. An exercise programme designed to help the facial muscles relearn their function will promote recovery. Progress will be monitored closely and modified to suit his changing needs.
Recovery may be slow but continuing progress can be expected over a number of months or even years. For those whose recovery is slow the input of a physiotherapist who specialises in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological problems is recommended.