Condition- Bell's Palsy Flashcards
What is Bell’s palsy?
Acute unilateral peripheral (lower motor neurone) palsy of the facial nerve
What could be a cause of Bell’s Palsy?
- IDIOPATHIC
- Viral aetiology: HSV-1 reactivation
What is the most common viral cause of Bells Palsy?
HSV-1
Descibe some of the presenting symptoms of Bell’s palsy…
- Unilateral facial weakness: Can’t blink/close eyes, smile, raise eyebrows
- Dry eyes (Keratoconjunctivitis sicca) because of inability to blink properly + dysfunction of lacrimal gland => corneal ulcers (ulcerative keratitis)
- Ears: Sensitivity to sound (Hyeracusis)
- Mouth: Drooling + speech impediments
What is Bell’s Phenomenon?
Bell’s phenomenon: eyeball rolls up but eye remains open when trying to close their eyes
Which investigations could you order for someone with suspected Bell’s?
- Clinical Diagnosis
- EMG: shows conduction block
- Bloods to find out aetiology
- Imaging: do MRI to check for space occupying lesions
How is Bell’s managed?
Mainly manage the dry eyes:
- Lubricaitng eye drops
- Eyepatch
- High dose CSs- prednisalone
List some of the complications of Bell’s palsy
- Corneal Ulcers
- Conjunctivitis
How long does it normally take for the symptoms of Bell’s palsy to resolve?
2-12 weeks
How do you differentiate a UMN facial paralysis from Bell’s?
UMN is forehead sparing
What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
LMN facial nerve paralysis caused by VZV
