Topic 12: Bell's Palsy

Question 1

Bell’s Palsy

Answer 1

acute, usually temporary, facial paresis (or palsy) resulting from damage or trauma to facial nerve, CN VII

Question 2

clinical manifestations of bells palsy

Answer 2

· Unilateral lower motor facial weakness (acute onset)
· Drooping eyelid; inability to close eye
· Drooping of corner of the mouth
· Drooling
· Dryness of eye or mouth
· Facial numbness
· Inability to wrinkle brow and puff cheeks
Altered taste, hearing loss, excessive tearing in 1 eye

Question 3

diagnostic assessment

Answer 3

No definitive diagnostic test, indicated by clinical examination and observing the typical pattern of onset

Question 4

what can relieve pain in bells palsy

Answer 4

mild analgesics and MOIST HEAT

Question 5

what can reduce inflammation in bells palsy

Answer 5

Oral corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and swelling should be started 72 hours after onset

Question 6

if bells palsy is due to viral cause what drug can be given

Answer 6

may receive antiviral agents such as acyclovir (Zovirax)

Question 7

when function returns in Bell’s palsy…

Answer 7

active facial muscle exercises are done several times a day

Question 8

what should the client protect their face from

Answer 8

· Tell patient to protect face from cold and drafts because trigeminal hyperesthesia (extreme sensitivity to pain or touch) may occur

Question 9

what side should the client chew on

Answer 9

unaffected side, hygeine after each meal

Question 10

reassure the client that

Answer 10

stroke did not occur and chances for full recovery are good