Bels Palsy Flashcards
1
Q
What is bels palsy?
A
A peripheral facial paralysis, resulting from inflammation or compression of a cranial nerve within the temporal bone
2
Q
Signs and symptoms include…
A
- Droopy eyelid
- Dry eye or excessive tears
- Facial paralysis
- Drooping corner of the mouth
- Impaired taste
3
Q
List some complications of bels palsy…
A
- Damage and infection to the eyes
- Misdiagnosis
- Cosmetically disfiguring
- Pain
4
Q
What is the cause of bels palsy?
A
Underlying cause = unknown
Although occurrence in late pregnancy and puerperium may be caused by odema, hypertension, pre-eclampsia and secondary to infection
5
Q
The role of the midwife includes…
A
- Appropriate referral
- Reassurance
- Psychological support
- Basic labour care
- Assist with oral medication as may be difficult (dribble)
