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Patient Education: Diseases Conditions Treatments & Procedures

Bell’s Palsy

Introduction

A condition that occurs when the nerve that controls the facial muscles becomes swollen or compressed.

Signs and symptoms of Bell's palsy may include:

  • Sudden onset of paralysis or weakness on one side of your face, making it difficult to smile or close your eye on the affected side
  • Facial droop and difficulty with facial expressions
  • Pain behind or in front of your ear on the affected side
  • Sounds that seem louder on the affected side
  • Pain, usually in the ear on the affected side
  • Headache
  • Loss of taste
  • Changes in the amount of tears and saliva your body produces