The October 18, 2005 issue of Life Science Weekly describes “Bells palsy as a temporary paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve, which affects approximately 25 of every 100,000 people in the United States.” The cause of the illness is really unknown although some think that it might be related to an autoimmune process or an infection such as the herpes simplex virus. They symptoms and illness can last from a few weeks to months. There are a wide range of symptoms that go along with Bell’s palsy and some of them can affect the person psychologically.
Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy
The symptoms of Bell’s palsy can come only slowly or fast and can last for weeks or months. Some people may have facial paralysis that causes their face to droop on one side which might cause the individual to drool. They may have difficulty blinking one eye which can cause problems with the tear ducts, difficulty speaking, problems with congestion or a runny nose. The Bell’s palsy sufferer may also be very nervous or easily agitated. They may seem on edge and loud noises may bother them. They may also have sensitivity to light and suffer from nausea. Many of these symptoms can affect the sufferer psychologically making them very self conscious and unable to work.
Recovery from Bell’s Palsy
The actual recovery process for Bell’s palsy patients can differ from one individual to another. Recovery is marked by the patient being able to regain control of their mouth and eye movements. There may be an increase or a decrease in pain in patients who are recovering because the numbness and paralysis that they had previously experienced is subsiding. They may feel more psychologically fit, less irritable and able to return to work or deal with daily life issues. The website www.bellspalsy.ws reports that “recovery can be gradual, rapid or hit occasional plateaus.” Unfortunately, there are some individuals that experience permanent drooping in their face.
Just like any other extensive illness the person who suffers from Bell’s palsy needs a great deal of family support to get through the illness. Family needs to be understanding and sensitive during this time. Bell’s palsy is a very difficult and sometimes lengthy illness to overcome.
Life Science Weekly; Diabetes Complications; Recovery Time from Bell Palsy is Longer for Those with Diabetes; October 18, 2005.
