Bell's Palsy

Question 1

What is bell’s palsy?

Answer 1

acute
unilateral
idiopathic
facial nerve paralysis

Question 2

Typical demographic for Bells Palsy

Answer 2

peak incidence is 20-40 years

More common in pregnant women.

Question 3

Features of bells palsy

Answer 3

• unilateral facial paralysis
• post-auricular pain
• altered taste
• dry eyes
• hyperacusis

Question 4

The forehead is SPARED in Bells palsy. TRUE/FALSE?

Answer 4

FALSE

LMN facial nerve palsy = forehead affected

UMN lesion ‘spares’ the upper face due to bilateral CN innervation

Question 5

Within how many hours should patients with bells palsy ideally receive oral steroids?

Answer 5

72 hours

Question 6

Why is eye care important in bells palsy?

Answer 6

May not be able to close eye due to nerve paralysis

=> prevent keratopathy
with lubricants

Question 7

When is an urgent ENT referral required?

Answer 7

No resolution of paralysis after 3 weeks, refer urgently to ENT

Question 8

How long does it take for full recovery of bells palsy?

Answer 8

3-4 months

if untreated ~15% of patients have permanent weakness