Bell’s palsy is sudden and appears similar to a thief who steals in the dark, leaving the other aspect of one’s face completely paralyzed. Imagine waking up in the morning only to discover your smile sagging and your eyelid isn’t closing and your taste buds appear to have disappeared. This is what happens to people with Bell’s palsy, a condition that blends the mystery of it with a tangled mess.
Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy
The first sign of symptoms is swift and sudden. You suddenly notice your facial muscles aren’t cooperating and causing an involuntary numbness on one side. Your forehead is sagging and your smile is skewed and you may experience drooling. Chewing can be a difficult task and an unorthodox combination of numbness and pain occurs behind your ears. In addition the headache that comes with it is persistent, comparable to a house guest who won’t leave.
Causes and Triggers
The precise causes of Bell’s palsy remain unclear, but viruses frequently play the role of the villain. Imagine the virus known as herpes simplex (yes it’s the same one that causes cold sores) or its relatives such as Epstein-Barr, herpes zoster or cytomegalovirus trying to take over the facial nerve. Acute or chronic fever, trauma, or even tooth extractions may cause this nerve rebellion. Women who are pregnant, diabetics and people with higher respiratory tract infections, are at greater risk.
Complications and Long-Term Effects
If Bell’s paralysis persists and continues to linger, it could cause destruction. The damage to the nerve could turn into permanent, resulting in the nerve fibers being misdirected. Also, be aware of the cornea – corneal scratching because of a lack of eyelid closure could blur your vision.
Prevention and Self-Care Strategies
To stay clear of the masked thief, stay away from drinking alcohol and stop smoking. Exercise is like a superhero’s cape to soothe your nerves. Control stress and, should your eyes be playing around, protect your eyes. And, don’t forget to take advantage of the greens. They’re just like vitamin supplements for the face. Do not forget to massage your face is similar to a day of relaxation to calm your nervous system.
Treatment Options
Doctors use their arsenals with corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and antiviral medications to combat the invading viruses. In some cases the facial nerve surgery is a step into the picture. Neurologists and otolaryngologists join the fight, equipped with experience.
Conclusion
Bell’s palsy might be a mystery but it’s certainly not invincible. If you recognize it early, take care of yourself and expert guidance you can identify this facial enemy. So, the next time your smile flutters, keep in mind it’s just a masked creature that is passing through.
FAQs:
- Does Bell’s skin asymmetry permanency?
- But not always. The majority of instances rise within a few weeks, however certain issues may persist.
- Stress can cause the Bell’s Palsy?
- Although stress by itself doesn’t cause it, tackling stress is vital for the overall health of your nerves.
- How can I stop the palsy of Bell?
- But an active lifestyle and prompt treatment can reduce the impact.
- Can facial massage be beneficial?
- It’s not too bad but it could calm those agitated nerves.
- Can I smile like Bell’s palsy?