Bell's Palsy

Definition

Bell's palsy is a sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. It is caused by inflammation or compression of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) and results in a drooping appearance on the affected side. The exact cause is often unknown, but it can be associated with viral infections.

Aetiology

Bell's palsy is primarily idiopathic, meaning the cause is often unknown. However, it is believed to be linked to viral infections such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes cold sores, and varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. Other potential causes include trauma, autoimmune disorders, and, in rare cases, tumours.

Pathophysiology

The facial nerve controls the muscles of facial expression. In Bell's palsy, inflammation or compression of the facial nerve disrupts its function, leading to weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. This inflammation is often due to a viral infection that causes the immune system to attack the nerve, leading to swelling and subsequent dysfunction.

Risk factors

Viral infections (e.g., herpes simplex, varicella-zoster)
Family history of Bell's palsy
Diabetes
Upper respiratory infections
Pregnancy, especially in the third trimester
High blood pressure

Signs and Symptoms

Sudden onset of weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
Drooping of the mouth or eyelid on the affected side
Inability to close the eye on the affected side
Drooling
Loss of taste sensation on the front two-thirds of the tongue
Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear
Pain around the jaw or behind the ear on the affected side
Headache

Investigations

Clinical examination: Based on the characteristic appearance and symptoms
Electromyography (EMG): To evaluate the extent of nerve involvement
Imaging (MRI or CT scan): To rule out other causes of facial paralysis such as tumours or stroke
Blood tests: To check for infections or other underlying conditions

Management

Primary Care Management:

Early treatment with corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) to reduce inflammation and improve the likelihood of recovery. The recommended dose is 50 mg daily for 10 days.
Antiviral medications if a viral infection is suspected, although their benefit is uncertain. Common antivirals include aciclovir 400 mg five times daily for 7 days.
Analgesics for pain relief if necessary
Protection of the eye on the affected side with lubricating drops, ointments, or an eye patch to prevent dryness and injury
Referral to a specialist if symptoms do not begin to improve within three weeks or if there is significant pain or other concerning features

Eye care:

Lubricating eye drops or ointments to protect the eye if it cannot be closed properly
Eye patch or tape to keep the eye closed during sleep

Physical therapy:

Facial exercises to maintain muscle tone and improve recovery
Massage to stimulate the facial muscles

Surgery:

Rarely recommended, but may be considered in cases where facial nerve damage is severe and does not improve with other treatments.

References:

O'Sullivan, S. B., & Schmitz, T. J. (2016). Physical Rehabilitation. 6th ed. F.A. Davis Company.
Ballenger, J. J., & Snow, J. B. (2015). Ballenger's Otorhinolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery. 17th ed. BC Decker.
Ropper, A. H., & Samuels, M. A. (2019). Adams and Victor's Principles of Neurology. 11th ed. McGraw-Hill Education.
McNamara, C. M., & Morgan, M. (2017). Current Diagnosis & Treatment: Family Medicine. 5th ed. McGraw-Hill Education.
NICE. (2023). Bell's Palsy: Management. Retrieved from https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/bells-palsy/management/
Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Bell's Palsy. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/-/scassets/images/org/health/articles/5457-bells-palsy