Bells Palsy Flashcards
1
Q
RF
A
Pregnancy and DM
Most causes are viral. Herpes simplex and varicella zoster.
Inflammation and oedema of facial nerve at temporal causing impingement and dysfunction.
2
Q
Presentation
UMN vs LMN
A
Acute onset of following symptoms:
- Facial paralysis
- Altered taste
- Dry mouth and eye
- Hyper-acousis
- Speech problems
- Numbness and tingling
If LMN, forehead not spared. UMN, forehead sparing
3
Q
Investigations
A
Look out for nueorological delterioation ie things that have more insidious cause. Red flags
stroke, tumour, trauma, infections
Otherwise blood serology for Herpes simplex, Varicella zoster and lymes disease.
4
Q
Management
A
Refer is cause is unknown.
Reassure usually resolves in 3 months time. Some complications include drooling, asymmetry.
Prescribe eye lubricants/tear replacement and oral corticosteroids.
