title: Diagnosis and management of patients with Bell's palsy.
abstract: Bell's palsy (idiopathic facial paralysis) is the most common cause of acute unilateral facial nerve paralysis. Although it is usually a self-limiting condition, it can be distressing for the patient. Many people who experience one-sided facial paralysis fear that it is a symptom of stroke. However, there are subtle differences between Bell's palsy and stroke. This article discusses potential causes of the condition and identifies the differences between Bell's palsy and stroke. In addition, appropriate strategies for the care of patients with the condition are suggested. Management includes antiviral medication, corticosteroid therapy, eye care, botulinum toxin type A injection, physiotherapy, surgery and acupuncture. Psychological and emotional care of these patients is also important because any facial disability caused by facial nerve paralysis can result in anxiety and stress.
authors.affiliation: Great Bentley Surgery, Essex.
authors.forename: Tracy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Mooney
mesh_terms: D015670:Acupuncture Therapy; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020330:Bell Palsy / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D011239:Prednisolone / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012720:Severity of Illness Index
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D000998:Antiviral Agents; D011239:Prednisolone