Bell Palsy

Bell Palsy Causes
The direct cause is not usually known, but Bell palsy is often preceded by symptoms of a viral syndrome. Other commonly mentioned triggers include stress, trauma, fever, and tooth extractions.

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Bell Palsy
Alternate Names : Facial Nerve Weakness, Facial Nerve Palsy ...

Bell Palsy »
Bell palsy, more appropriately known as idiopathic facial paralysis (IFP), is believed to be a virally mediated cranial neuritis affecting the facial nerve due to reactivation of the herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Corticosteroids vs corticosteroids plus antiviral agents in the treatment of Bell palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2009;135:558-564.
de Almeida JR, Al Khabori M, Guyatt GH, et al.

de Almeida JR, Al Khabori M, Guyatt GH, Witterick IJ, Lin VY, Nedzelski JM, et al. Combined corticosteroid and antiviral treatment for Bell palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA. 2009;302:985-993.

It may occur as a manifestation of compressive lesions involving the seventh cranial nerve (FACIAL NERVE DISEASES), during recovery from BELL PALSY, or in association with other disorders.
(From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p1378) ...

the eyes; prolonged reading, computer use, or viewing of television or movies; use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) device for treatment of sleep apnea; diseases that affect the ability of the eyelids to close fully such as Bell palsy ...

See also: Palsy, Herpes, Paralysis, Infections, Weakness