Causes And Complications Of Bell's Palsy

Bell's palsy is a form of facial paralysis in which typically, only one side is affected. However, in rare cases, the disease can affect both sides of the face at once. In Bell's palsy, the patient has little control over facial expression, and their face may appear to droop on one side as a result. Patients with Bell's palsy often look similar to someone who has had a stroke, but strokes and Bell's palsy are two different conditions. The exact cause of this disease is not known for sure, but it may be the result of certain viral infections. It affects both sexes about equally. Bell's palsy can be managed, but it can't be cured. The condition is usually self-limiting. Symptoms typically resolve spontaneously within a few months at most. Get to know some of the causes and complications of this condition now.

The Flu

Influenza, often just called the flu, may be implicated in the development of Bell's palsy, though it has not been absolutely proven. Some studies have also demonstrated a possible link between the disease and its vaccination, which is peculiar because influenza vaccines typically do not contain any live virus. The vaccine administered by nasal spray does, but this virus is weakened and cannot cause the actual disease. Some theorize it could be due to an allergic reaction of some kind, though this has not been proven. Bell's palsy appears in some individuals a short time after they have recovered from influenza. This may be because the virus caused trauma to the cranial nerve that controls the facial muscles.

Learn more about the causes of Bell's palsy now.