| The onset of Bell's palsy is usually very sudden, with some
noticeable paralysis of an entire side of the face (hence the term
facial palsy).
Initially, the affected side no longer responds to voluntary
control such as trying to smile or the raising of eyebrows. It is at
this stage of the condition that most people seek medical help,
often thinking they have had some form of
stroke.
Often, there is pain or discomfort just behind the ear and
around the jaw.
The sufferer may also experience twitching of the facial muscles,
excessive tearing in one eye, drooping of the corner of the eyelid
and mouth.
Additionally, because the ability to blink is affected by Bell's
palsy, the eye becomes dry and uncomfortable. In the next 48 hours, during which time the sudden onset from
the initial symptom has progressed to include other symptoms, there
is often significant facial distortion as the facial muscles become
paralyzed, lose tone and begin to droop.
Other symptoms may include ringing in one or both ears,
headache, loss of taste, hypersensitivity to sound (hyperacusis) on
the affected side, impaired speech, dizziness, and difficulty with
eating or drinking. |
