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Bell's Palsy Info
Bell's palsy is a type of facial paralysis resulting from damage or trauma to a facial nerve. Generally, the condition affects only one of the two facial nerves and one side of the face; however, in rare cases, it can affect both sides. Bell's palsy is temporary. Although there is no cure, certain treatments can help eliminate the cause of nerve damage and speed up resolution of symptoms.
Treatment options include:
- Medications
- Eye protection
- Physical therapy
- Certain alternative treatments.
Bell's palsy afflicts approximately 40,000 Americans each year. It affects men and women equally, and can occur at any age, but it is less common before age 15 or after age 60.
(Click Bell's Palsy for more information on this condition, including a detailed list of symptoms, how it is diagnosed, and the usual prognosis.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD



