Bell's palsy (peripheral facial nerve palsy)

Overview

The forehead is usually weak too in Bell's palsy; in stroke it often isn't.

Protecting the eye is very important.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sudden weakness on one side of the face
• One whole side of the face is weak, including the forehead, or one eye won't close

Less common

• Drooping mouth
• Can't close eye

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve swelling, often after a virus.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Pregnancy
• Diabetes

Diagnosis

A clinician checks face and nerves.

The exam

Full nerve exam to rule out stroke.

Treatment

Protect the eye.

Self-care

• Use artificial tears in the day and ointment at night
• Tape the eye shut for sleep if it won't close
• Wear glasses outside

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover fully.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bell's palsy (peripheral facial nerve palsy)