Bell's Palsy Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes a temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles in the face. It can occur when the nerve that controls your facial muscles becomes inflamed, swollen, or compressed. The condition causes one side of your face to droop or become stiff. You may have difficulty smiling or closing your eye on the affected side. In most cases, Bell’s palsy is temporary, and symptoms usually go away within a few weeks or months. Although Bell’s palsy can occur at any age, the condition is more common among people between ages 16 and 60. Your doctor will first perform a physical examination to determine the extent of the weakness in your facial muscles. They’ll also ask you questions about your symptoms, including when they occurred or when you first noticed them. While there’s no specific lab test that your doctor can use to confirm that you definitely have Bell’s palsy, your doctor can use a variety of tests to help make a Bell’s palsy diagnosis. The main positive prognostic factor is how quickly you seek expert help!
