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A newly drooping mouth or weakness on one side of the face always needs prompt assessment. Bell's palsy can often be treated effectively, but only after a stroke and other causes have been sufficiently ruled out.
- In Bell's palsy, the facial nerve on one side suddenly becomes weak. The forehead, eye and mouth may all move less well.
- Symptoms usually develop within hours to a few days. Record as accurately as possible when you were last completely normal.
- Call Ambulance 912 for accompanying arm or leg weakness, problems speaking, seeing, walking or swallowing, a severe headache, confusion or unconsciousness.
- Are only the facial muscles affected? Still contact a doctor the same day. A course of corticosteroids works best when started early, preferably within 72 hours.
- An eye that does not close completely can dry out and suffer permanent damage. Proper eye protection starts immediately and is as important as medicines.
- Most people recover largely or completely within weeks to months. Severe, complete loss of function is more likely to leave lasting problems than mild, partial weakness.
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