Bell's Palsy

I just today got diagnosed as having Bell's Palsy. The left side of my face, my left ear all swollen and the left side of my mouth turned down. My lips feel as though I've had freezing at the dentist and I can't drink without dribbling. I can't shut my left eye.

I have prescriptions for prednisone, an anti-viral - famciclovir and an ointment to keep my eye from drying up.

Has anyone on the Forum had Bell's Palsy? Can you tell me what to expect?

Thanks,

Pete

A buddy of mine had it. He took a few weeks to get rid of it, but has had no ill effects from it .

My mother has had it twice when I was younger. She had it both times in about 5 yrs and has not had a reacurance in 25 yrs. She has no permenant effects from it but as you stated her one side of her face went numb and no muscle strength or control to close eye, or smile

my neighbour got it last fall... her speech is slurred abit, but otherwise normal again... good luck in your recovery

Thanks guys! Just don't want to end up looking like Jean Chretien!

Hey GLP, I must admit I was ignorant to what it even was, when I first saw the posting, I got a sinking feeling thinking it was a long term diagnosis. Did some Google searches and glad to see that you'll be on the mend!

You have been given all the meds that are know to help.
Just remember that they improve your chances for a full recovery.
But recovery can take up to six months.
But you only need meds for 1-2 weeks and at the end of that you'll probably look exactly the same.
Recovery is gradual after that lasting many months.
Eye protection especially at night is crutial

Wishing you a speedy recovery Pete!

Best wishes for a quick recovery Pete.

Speedy recovery GLP!!

FSHN 247
Jay