How to Diagnose Bells Palsy

Bells Palsy affects people of all ages, but it's most common in people who are pregnant, have autoimmune deficiencies or upper respiratory ailments. It's a paralysis on one side of the face caused by the swelling of facial nerves. The exact cause isn't known, but it isn't dangerous and will eventually go away. A physician will need to confirm a diagnosis, but there are signs and symptoms you can look for.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience a sudden paralysis on one side of your face including muscles in the eyelid. You may notice a flat or droopy look on one side of your face.
2. Take note of any pain you may experience, especially behind or in front of the ear on the affected side. You may also notice sounds appear louder than before.
3. Notice if you experience a change in taste, salivation or tear formation which are sometimes symptoms of Bells Palsy.
4. Arrange for an exam by your doctor. He may suggest an electromyography to determine the extent of the nerve involvement and severity of the paralysis.
5. Have an MRI or CT scan done, if your doctor feels it's necessary to diagnose what is causing the pressure on the facial nerves. In addition to Bells Palsy, the paralysis could also be caused by tumors or an infection.

Tips & Warnings

• If your eye won't close properly, you may need to protect it with a patch or some wrap around plastic glasses. It will become irritated or injured if exposed to dust and dirt.
• As muscle strength returns, use facial massage and exercises for the forehead, cheek, lips and eyes to help strengthen muscles.