Bell’s palsy is caused due to paralysis of facial nerve that results in an inability to control the facial muscles on the affected side. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include muscle twitching, weakness, or total loss of the ability to move one or rarely both sides of the face.
Medications:
- Tab. Wysolone 10 (Prednisolone 10 mg) –
- Day 1 – 1 tablet 4 times a day (8am, 1pm, 6pm, 11pm)
- Day 2 and 3 – 1 tablet 3 times a day (8am, 3pm, 11pm)
- Day 4 and 5 – 1 tablet twice a day (8am and 8pm)
- Day 6 and 7 – 1 tablet once a day (8am)
- For suspected Lyme disease – Add cap. Microdox-LBS (Doxycycline 100 mg, Lactobacillus 5 billion spores) 1 capsule twice a day for upto 14 days.
- For suspected HSV (Herpes simplex viral) reactivation – Tab. Herpikind 800 (Acyclovir 800 mg) 1 tablet 4 times a day for 5 days.
- Eye drops Refresh Tears 0.5% (Carboxymethylcellulose) 4 times a day.
General advice:
- Use protective eye wear.
- Give symptomatic treatment in case of infective pathology.
- Advice caution while chewing.
- Ensure good oral care to prevent tongue bites.
Investigations:
- Diagnosis is usually based on clinical findings.
- MRI head if symptoms occur gradually and/or if there is suspicion of space occupying lesion.
Referral:
Please consider referral to neurologist if patient fails to respond or if presents with complex neurological symptoms.