Bell's Palsy: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as facial paralysis, one-sided face weakness.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Bell's palsy is sudden weakness of the muscles on one side of the face, caused by inflammation of the facial nerve — the eye may not close and the mouth droops. It frightens people because it mimics stroke, but it affects only the face and most people recover fully within weeks to months. Early treatment improves recovery.
Symptoms
Sudden drooping of one side of the face
Inability to close the eye on that side
Mouth pulling to one side; drooling
Loss of forehead wrinkles on the affected side
Altered taste
Ear pain on the affected side
Sensitivity to sound in one ear
Causes & risk factors
Inflammation of the facial nerve, often after a viral infection
Diabetes and pregnancy increase risk
Exact trigger frequently unknown
Treatment & self-care
See a doctor within 72 hours — a short course of prescribed steroid tablets started early speeds recovery. Protect the open eye with lubricating drops and a patch at night, and facial exercises or physiotherapy support the muscles as the nerve heals. Most people recover substantially within three months.
See a doctor urgently if
Any sudden facial weakness — to confirm it is not a stroke
Weakness of an arm or leg, slurred speech or imbalance alongside
The eye becoming red or painful
No improvement after three to four weeks
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Bell's Palsy?
Early signs often include sudden drooping of one side of the face, inability to close the eye on that side, mouth pulling to one side; drooling. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Bell's Palsy be treated?
See a doctor within 72 hours — a short course of prescribed steroid tablets started early speeds recovery. Protect the open eye with lubricating drops and a patch at night, and facial exercises or physiotherapy support the muscles as the nerve heals. Most people recover substantially within three months.
When should I see a doctor about Bell's Palsy?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: any sudden facial weakness — to confirm it is not a stroke; weakness of an arm or leg, slurred speech or imbalance alongside; the eye becoming red or painful; no improvement after three to four weeks.