What are the symptoms of Bell's palsy?

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Introduction

Bell's palsy is a condition characterized by sudden, unilateral facial paralysis or weakness due to dysfunction of the seventh cranial nerve. It is the most common cause of acute facial nerve paralysis and can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.

Key Insights

Unilateral Facial Paralysis:
- Sudden onset of muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, often developing over 24 to 72 hours .
Forehead Involvement:
- Involvement of the forehead muscles, distinguishing it from other types of facial paralysis .
Pain:
- Pain around the ear or in the face, which can precede or accompany the paralysis .
Eye Symptoms:
- Inability to close the eye on the affected side, leading to dry eye and excessive tearing (epiphora) .
Mouth Symptoms:
- Drooping of the mouth corner, drooling, and difficulty with facial expressions .
Taste Abnormalities:
- Altered taste sensation, particularly on the anterior two-thirds of the tongue on the affected side .
Other Neurological Symptoms:
- Some patients report additional neurological symptoms not directly related to the facial nerve.

Conclusion

Bell's palsy primarily presents with sudden, unilateral facial paralysis, often accompanied by pain around the ear, inability to close the eye, drooping of the mouth, and altered taste sensation. These symptoms typically peak within the first few days and can vary in severity. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving recovery outcomes.