DEFINITION

Bell's Palsy is a condition that causes sudden muscle paralysis on one side of the face.

DESCRIPTION

In Bell's Palsy there is a sudden loss of control of the muscles on one side of the face, although feeling in the affected side is still present. This loss of control can come on in just a few hours. The result is a flat, expressionless face that can be rather disturbing for many patients. Drooping of the mouth and an inability to close the eye on the affected side of the face can also occur. Other common symptoms of Bell's Palsy include pain behind the ear before the facial weakness develops; drooling; an altered sense of taste; changes in hearing and runny, teary eyes.

The muscles of the face, which give us our expression and the ability to close our eyes properly, are all controlled by a facial nerve. This main nerve starts from a small hole in the skull just in front of the ear it branches out over the face under the skin. If for some reason the main facial nerve is damaged, the face alters in shape. Although the cause of Bell's Palsy is unknown, it is thought that this facial nerve becomes swollen and is compressed as it travels through the small hole in front of the ear. When the nerve is compressed, it cannot transmit nerve impulses that are essential for controlling the muscles of the face. The inflammation of this nerve is thought to be caused by a type of infection and in many patients, it appears that a virus called Herpes simplex, which also causes cold sores, may infect the nerve and cause Bell's Palsy. There seems to be an increased risk of developing Bell's Palsy in diabetic patients, patients with a poorly functioning immune system, people who have had a recent respiratory infection and for women, during pregnancy, particularly when there is eclampsia.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

It is very important to see a Doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of Bell's Palsy. Your Doctor may perform a number of tests to rule out the possibility of other diseases that could have caused the facial paralysis (e.g. middle ear infection and Lyme disease). Medications may be prescribed to reduce the swelling of the nerve. If the eye does not close, it may be necessary to use lubricants such as artificial tears, as well as taping the eye shut.

Most patients recover well from Bell's Palsy, although improvement is not usually seen until about three weeks after the condition has started. About 85% of patients recover fully within about six months, but the remaining 15% can experience permanent impairment or loss of control of the facial muscles on the affected side of the face.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
1) Follow the Diet Hints.
2) Rest as much as possible and avoid stressful situations.
3) Artificial tears and eye lubricants may be necessary to protect the eye if the lid does not close. Your Pharmacist can recommend a suitable product.
4) Pain may be relieved by applying a heat pack. Your Pharmacy has these in stock.
5) Facial massage may help improve nerve stimulation and muscle strength in Bell's Palsy. Your Pharmacy has some massage oil in stock if required.
6) Food can become stuck in the teeth and gums on the affected side of the mouth. Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste and dental floss after every meal to prevent cavities forming.
7) If the diet is considered inadequate, some dietary supplements might be considered. Ask your Pharmacist to give you advice on dosages.

DIET HINTS

A well balanced diet is important. This will ensure that the body will repair any damage to the nerves and muscles as quickly as possible. Chewing is often difficult during Bell's Palsy because of paralysis of part of the mouth, so a diet of soft foods may be necessary. Fresh fruit and vegetable juices are an ideal way of ensuring an adequate intake of vitamins and minerals.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

- Methylcobalamin is one of two forms of vitamin B12 that can improve symptoms in some Bell's Palsy patients.
- Lysine is an amino acid that has anti-viral properties. It may help patients whose condition is associated with Herpes simplex infection.
- Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids have been shown to be affective against the herpes virus.
- Echinacea has been shown to be effective against the herpes virus. Echinacea is also known to enhance the immune system and to protect against infection.
- Vitamin A is an effective inhibitor of herpes virus replication and may also be used for its antioxidant properties.

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