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Bell's palsy

Bell's palsy is a condition in which there is paralysis of the muscles of the face, typically on one side. It is usually temporary with most people making a full recovery within 2-3 months. It comes on suddenly, and the cause is unknown.

The facial nerve (seventh cranial nerve) supplies the muscles in your face. In Bell’s palsy this nerve is affected, leading to weakness or paralysis of the muscles that control smiling, frowning, eating and closing of the eyelids. It can also affect your ability to taste.

Bell’s palsy can affect men and women of any age although the highest incidence appears to be in 20-35 year olds. In the UK it affects approximately 1 in 70 people at some point in their lifetime.

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