Definition

Bell's palsy describes the acute onset of an unexplained weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. Afflicted individuals may be unable to close the eye on the affected side of the face, and may also experience tearing, drooling, and hypersensitive hearing on the same side. The onset can be quite sudden, sometimes occurring overnight. The weakness and paralysis resolve completely in the majority of cases. Although it cannot be considered a serious condition from a health standpoint, it can cause extreme stress, embarrassment, and inconvenience for those affected.

Description

Bell's palsy has been described as a diagnosis of exclusion because several other disorders exhibit similar symptoms. Facial palsies have been linked to conditions such as Lyme disease, ear infection, meningitis, syphilis, German...