Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s Palsy Treatment in South Carolina
Neurology Specialty
What is Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s Palsy is when the muscles on one side of the face suddenly become weak or paralyzed. When the facial nerve, which regulates the muscles of the face, is inflamed, this illness develops. Although the precise origin of Bell’s Palsy is commonly unknown, viral diseases like herpes simplex may be involved.
Bell’s Palsy can be frightening, but with the right medical care, the majority of patients fully recover in three to six months.
Bell’s Palsy Symptoms
Bell’s Palsy normally affects one side of the face and presents with a variety of symptoms. Important signs include:
- One side of the face may experience sudden weakness or paralysis, giving it a droopy aspect
- The damaged side of the face might not move normally whether smiling or frowning
- Eye issues including weeping, a drooping eyelid, or trouble shutting the eye
- Taste loss especially on the tongue’s front two-thirds
- Hyperacusis, or increased sensitivity to sound, is a condition that affects one ear
- Before paralysis begins, facial pain or discomfort is frequently experienced
- Speaking difficulties that include slurred or soft speech
These signs and symptoms may appear suddenly and be misdiagnosed as a stroke or another more serious condition. Therefore, in order to make a diagnosis and start the right course of treatment, immediate medical care is crucial, and with prompt treatment, recovery is usually good, but symptoms can temporarily seriously impair a person.
Treatment for Bell’s Palsy
Treatment for Bell’s Palsy focuses on reducing symptoms and treating the underlying facial nerve irritation. The method of care may consist of:
- Prednisone and other corticosteroid medications are used to treat swelling and inflammation
- Antiviral drugs may also be recommended in conjunction with corticosteroids if a viral infection is thought to be present
- Exercises and treatments used in physical therapy to stimulate facial muscles and speed healing
- Artificial tears or eye patches to stop your eye from drying out if you can’t close it
- Over-the-counter analgesics can help you feel better and relieve pain
- Lifestyle changes to help reduce stress and aid in the overall healing process
For the greatest likelihood of a full recovery, treatment should start as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours after the start of symptoms. For comprehensive care, collaboration with medical professionals such as primary care doctors, neurologists, and physical therapists may be required.
In order to monitor progress and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan, monitoring and follow-up appointments are often necessary.
Bell’s Palsy Care in South Carolina
If you are experiencing symptoms of Bell’s Palsy, Carolina Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates is here to help. Our team of experienced staff is dedicated to making quick diagnoses and giving personalized care, using both tried-and-true methods and new techniques.
We know how important it is to act quickly and will work closely with you to help you get better. Trust that we care about the health and happiness of our patients. Contact us today to set up an appointment and take the first step toward getting the care and support you need to recover.