Bell's palsy
Bell's palsy is a temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of your face caused by nerve swelling.
Connect with verified specialists experienced in managing conditions related to Nervous System Diseases.
Find NeurologistsClinical Overview
Bell's palsy happens when the facial nerve—the wire-like structure that carries signals from your brain to your face muscles—becomes inflamed or swollen. This swelling causes the nerve to stop working properly, which results in the face drooping on one side.
While it can look quite alarming, it is important to know that it is not a stroke and most people recover their full facial movement over time. The condition specifically affects the seventh cranial nerve, which controls your expressions like smiling, blinking, and frowning.
Common Symptoms
- Sudden weakness or total paralysis on one side of your face.
- Difficulty closing the eye on the affected side.
- Drooping of the corner of the mouth, causing drooling or trouble drinking.
- Loss of taste on the front two-thirds of your tongue.
- Increased sensitivity to sound in the ear on the affected side.
- Pain around the jaw or behind the ear.