What is Bell’s palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a sudden weakness of the muscles on one side of the face. It happens when the nerve that moves those muscles stops working properly. The cause is not always clear.
The face may droop, the eye may not close, and smiling, eating and speaking feel different. It is frightening, and it is a medical problem that needs a proper check.
What should you do first?
See a doctor the same day. A drooping face can be a sign of a stroke, and only a doctor can tell the difference.
If there is also arm or leg weakness, trouble speaking or a severe headache, go to the emergency department at once. See our guide to stroke warning signs.
If the doctor confirms Bell’s palsy, ask about medicine. Some treatments are time-sensitive, so the sooner you are seen, the more options you have.
What does recovery look like over time?
It varies, so treat this as a general picture and ask your doctor about yours.
- First days: weakness is at its worst, the eyelid may not close and the face feels stiff.
- First weeks: signs of improvement tend to begin, with small movements returning.
- Months: most people recover a good deal, with strength and symmetry slowly returning.
- Later: some people have lasting weakness or tightness, or unwanted movements, such as the eye closing when they smile.
A review with your doctor is worthwhile if nothing is changing after a few weeks.
How do you protect the eye?
If the eyelid will not close, the eye can dry out and become sore. This matters more than the exercises.
- Use the eye drops or ointment the doctor prescribes.
- Close the eyelid gently with a finger, or tape it at night as the doctor or nurse shows you.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to shield the eye from wind and dust.
- Point the fan away from the face while sleeping.
- Go to the doctor quickly if the eye becomes red, painful or blurry.
Can physiotherapy help?
Gentle facial exercises, massage and mirror work can help the muscles work again and keep the face from tightening. We start when the doctor agrees. Small, controlled movements are better than big grimaces, which can encourage unwanted tightness.
A physiotherapist can show you the right movements, how frequently to do them and which to avoid. Read more about Bell’s palsy rehabilitation and our home physiotherapy.
How do you cope with daily life in Ipoh?
At the kopitiam, chew on the stronger side, take small bites and use a straw or a cup with a wide rim for drinks. Wipe the mouth gently and take your time. If you are shy, choose a quieter table or a quieter hour.
Face-to-face work, family weddings, Chinese New Year or Hari Raya photos can feel heavy when your smile is uneven. Tell close family what is happening, and remember that most people recover. Take time off work if you need it, and talk to the doctor if the stress is hard to carry.
When should you go back to the doctor?
Return if the eye is sore or red, or if there is a rash or pain around the ear. Return too for new numbness or weakness elsewhere, or if nothing improves after a few weeks. Go to the emergency department for new weakness in the arm or leg, trouble speaking or a severe headache.
Our Canning Garden centre, near Fatimah Hospital, is opening soon. Home and centre prices differ and are quoted on WhatsApp.