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Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy is a sudden weakness or drooping of one side of the face caused by inflammation of the facial nerve. It usually improves over weeks and most people recover well.
Causes & risk factors
- Inflammation of the facial nerve, often after a viral infection
- Reactivation of viruses such as cold-sore or shingles viruses
- The exact trigger is often unclear
- More common in pregnancy and diabetes
Common symptoms
- Sudden one-sided facial drooping
- Inability to close one eye
- Drooling or difficulty smiling
- Pain around or behind the ear
- Change in taste
- Sensitivity to sound on one side
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis (history and exam)
- MRI (if diagnosis unclear)
- Blood sugar
Treatment & management
- A short course of steroids started early helps recovery
- Antiviral medicine in some cases
- Eye protection — drops and taping the eye shut at night
- Facial exercises as advised
- Most people recover over weeks to a few months
When to see a doctor urgently
- Any sudden facial droop — get urgent assessment, as stroke must be ruled out (call your local emergency number if there is also arm weakness or speech difficulty)
- Inability to close the eye, to protect it from damage
- Facial weakness that is worsening or not improving after a few weeks
- Facial weakness on both sides, or with a rash or severe pain
Frequently asked questions
Is Bell's palsy a stroke?
No, but they can look similar. A key difference is that a stroke usually spares the forehead while Bell's palsy affects the whole side of the face. Any sudden facial droop should still be assessed urgently to be sure.
Will my face return to normal?
Most people recover fully within a few weeks to months, especially when treatment starts early. A minority have some lasting weakness, and specialist input can help.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.