Bells Palsy ☺️ Flashcards
Bells Palsy presentation
Differentiation between Bells and a stroke
LMN unilateral facial nerve palsy
FOREHEAD AFFECTED
Preauricular pain
Altered taste
Dry eyes
Increased sensitivity to sound
Gradual onset without forehead sparing
No impact on motor function
Epidemiology
Etiology and pathophysiology
20-40s, common in pregnant
Idiopathic but linked to herpes viruses
Affects both LMNs => impacts on upper and lower face
- UMN supplying upper face => bilateral
- UMN supplying lower face => contralateral
Management
- pharmacological
- supportive
Prednisolone within 72hrs of onset
Valacyclovir
Lubricating eyedrops
Eye patch - protect eyes from abrasions
Follow up and prognosis
Most recover within 3-4months
If untreated => 15% have permanent moderate/severe weakness
No improvement after 3wks => ENT referral
Surgery may be needed