Bells palsy Flashcards
What is bells palsy
type of facial paralysis that occurs due to dysfunction of the facial nerve- caused by inflammation or compression
most common cause of acute facial nerve paralysis
can occur at any age , common 15-60
How may someone with bells palsy present
sudden onset of facial weakness or paralysis - on one side of face
drooping of mouth - no increased production of saliva
inability to close eye on affected side
drooping of eyelid
altered taste- on anterior [art of tongue
speech impairment
What may examination of someone with Bell’s palsy present
reveal weakness/paralysis of muscles
loss of corneal reflex
hyperacusis- reduced tolerance to sound
What is the first line investigation for Bells Palsy
thorough history and physical examination to rule out other causes
What other investigations are required
If diagnosis is uncertain , further investigations such as
EMG
MRI
CT
Nerve conduction studies can be carried out if palsy persists and there is no recovery after a few weeks
What is management
high dose prednisolone within 72 hours of onset of symptoms
prednisolone 25mg orally once daily for 10 days for most patients with Bells palsy
antiviral in some cases
eye care is essential
physical therapy and facial exercises
most patients recover fully within 3-6 months
What is a complication of bells palsy
axonal degeneration
What is most likely cause fo bells palsy
viral neuropathy
When is there usually increased incidences of bells palsy
increased incidence in pregnancy
increase incidence in diabetics
