Bell's Palsy - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which doctor should be consulted in Bell's palsy?

A: A neurologist and an ophthalmologist are the doctors who must be consulted for this condition.

Q: Is the condition reversible?

A: Yes. In most cases after a course of steroids, the symptoms subside although you will need to take precautions like covering your face to avoid exposure to cold.

Q: Is Bell's palsy fatal?

A: No, unless there is any underlying condition like trauma to the head or severe diabetes, the condition does not result in death.

Q: Will my children be affected?

A: That is difficult to say since only 4 percent seem to have inherited the condition although no specific link has been established.

Q: Will Bell's Palsy happen again?

A: In most instances, Bell's palsy affects an individual only once in their lifetime. It is however believed that about 1 in 10 people who have a Bell's palsy have a further episode sometime several years afterwards.

Q: Does Bell's palsy affect any other parts of the body?

A: No. Bell's palsy is a local problem confined to the facial nerve and facial muscles.

Post a Comment

Comments should be on the topic and should not be abusive. The editorial team reserves the right to review and moderate the comments posted on the site.

Consult Neurologist Online

Rhonda1971 - Apr 25, 2013

I have had Bell's palsy for about six weeks and a couple of days ago my face was almost back together and so was my speech but now it's back to being bad again. It keeps going back and forth for the last couple days. Is this normal

siv_naresh - Jul 06, 2011

Hi,Am going through Bell's Palsy from last 2 days. Just want to know if I still go for my regular work outs or do i need to be at home, resting.. Or is it suggestible I join Yoga during this period.. will that help in any case???

ennairam_23 - Jan 26, 2011

I had Bell's Palsy when I was 14. Good thing my Mom noticed that my left side of the face is paralyzed so she brought me to the doctor and had me checked. The doctor prescribed hot compress on my face and medicines that I forgot but I think there's a steroid. Since Bell's Palsy is mostly idiopathic, there really is no treatment. All that we can do is to make sure that the eye is moisturized so that it won't dry up and be infected. And wait until it gets better..