Bell's Palsy

Question 1

What is Bell’s Palsy?

Answer 1

An idiopathic syndrome affecting the facial nerve

Question 2

What are the symptoms of Bell’s Palsy?

Answer 2

Acute onset of unilateral facial weakness
Ear pain - postauricular otalgia
Hyperacusis - finding loud noises unbearable
Drooling
Drooping eyelid or corner of mouth
Altered taste
Dry eyes or mouth

Question 3

Does Bell’s palsy involve the forehead?

Answer 3

Yes (stroke is forehead sparing)

Question 4

What is the main treatment of Bell’s palsy?

Answer 4

Oral steroids - 50mg OD for 10 days

Question 5

What other management options are involved in Bell’s palsy?

Answer 5

Supportive treatments - artificial saliva/tears, eye patch/tape

Question 6

What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?

Answer 6

A facial nerve palsy caused by shingles near the ear

Question 7

How is Ramsay-Hunt syndrome differentiated from Bell’s Palsy?

Answer 7

Patients with Ramsay-Hunt syndrome will have profound ear pain, and a rash in the ear

Question 8

What extra treatment would be given to someone with Ramsay-Hunt syndrome?

Answer 8

Acyclovir