27/08/2025
Last week, I again suffered an incident of cheek swelling due to my having Bell's Palsy- many years ago. Although I had prepared to make a video on a different subject,  I felt a little bit despondent and decided - literally spur of the moment decision - to actually make a video of what happened to me and why I might have landed up getting Bell's Palsy, and my journey with Bell's Palsy, over the past 16 years.
Here us the research text, and personal experience, which I wrote for my Video and I will include a link to my video which is on YouTube .
Bell’s Palsy: Clinical Insights and a Personal Journey
Abstract
Bell’s Palsy is the most common cause of sudden unilateral facial paralysis, affecting the seventh cranial nerve (facial nerve). While most patients recover fully within months, some experience long-term sequelae such as synkinesis, dry eye, or salivary gland dysfunction. The condition is often confused with stroke, making early differentiation critical. This article outlines the pathophysiology, symptoms, management strategies, and long-term considerations of Bell’s Palsy, while incorporating a real-life patient perspective of a healthcare professional who has lived with its consequences for over 16 years.
A Personal Experience – My Bell’s Palsy Story, 16 Years Later
Sixteen years ago, after trying to whistle to my wife and not being able to do so, I noticed her expression change. Looking in the mirror, I saw my face hanging. I quickly discovered it was Bell’s Palsy.
I did everything medically recommended at the time — corticosteroids, eye protection, and careful recovery. But even years later, I still face challenges, especially with a poorly functioning saliva gland, which sometimes blocks and causes a swollen cheek.
In my video, I share:
• What Bell’s Palsy is and how it starts
• The dangers you need to watch for in the short-term (especially eye care)
• The long-term struggles that can follow, like saliva gland problems
• The crucial differences between Bell’s Palsy and a stroke
• What I wish I knew then, that could help you now
👉 Bell’s Palsy can be frightening, but with the right knowledge, early treatment, and ongoing care, recovery is possible — and life can still be full.
What is Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s Palsy is an acute, unilateral paralysis or weakness of the facial muscles caused by dysfunction of the seventh cranial nerve. It is the most common cause of sudden facial paralysis and typically develops over several hours to a few days.
Although the exact cause remains uncertain, viral infections (especially herpes simplex virus type 1 and varicella-zoster virus) are often implicated. Inflammation and swelling of the nerve within the bony facial canal cause compression and impaired neural transmission.
Common Symptoms
• Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
• Drooping of the mouth and eyelid
• Inability to close the eye by involuntary blinking
⚠️ YOU HAVE TO THINK – BLINK!
Patients must consciously blink 4–6 times per minute and ensure the eye is properly closed. This is extremely difficult when performing other tasks, as the eye may close voluntarily but not involuntarily.
• Reduced tear and saliva production
• Altered taste sensation
• Sensitivity to sound on the affected side
👉 Rule of thumb: If other neurological symptoms are present (speech problems, limb weakness, or confusion), treat it as a stroke until proven otherwise.
Bell’s Palsy vs Stroke
Key differences between Bell’s Palsy and stroke:
• Bell’s Palsy affects the entire side of the face (forehead and mouth), while stroke often spares the forehead.
• Bell’s Palsy develops over hours to days, stroke occurs within seconds to minutes.
• Bell’s Palsy is typically isolated to facial symptoms, while stroke often presents with additional signs: speech difficulty, limb weakness, vision problems, or confusion.
• Bell’s Palsy results from peripheral nerve inflammation, while stroke is caused by a vascular event in the brain (ischemic or hemorrhagic).
• Bell’s Palsy is important but not usually life-threatening, whereas stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
Short-Term Management (First Weeks)
Medical Care
• Corticosteroids (prednisone) within 48–72 hours improve recovery.
• Antivirals may be prescribed in suspected viral cases.
• Eye protection is critical: lubricating drops, ointment, or taping the eyelid shut at night to prevent corneal ulcers.
• Think Blink – all the time!
⚠️ Beware of a “hanging cheek” — minimize prolonged cheek drooping to prevent secondary issues.
Consult a physiotherapist for early guidance.
Self-Care
• Gentle facial massage and exercises. Massaging with topical aids (e.g., Arnica oil, menthol rubs) may stimulate blood flow.
• Cold compresses for swelling or pain.
• Adequate hydration and soft foods if chewing is difficult.
• Consider nutritional support, especially B vitamins (notably B12) and vitamin C.
Long-Term Considerations
Most patients recover within 2–6 months, but some face residual effects:
• Synkinesis: involuntary movements (e.g., eye closes when smiling).
• Dry eye and corneal complications from incomplete closure.
• Saliva gland dysfunction, leading to reduced flow, blockage, and cheek swelling (as in my case).
Ongoing Care
• Physical therapy or facial rehabilitation exercises.
• Speech therapy for articulation issues.
• Regular dental and oral care to reduce risks from low saliva flow.
• Specialist follow-up (ENT, neurology, or ophthalmology) for persistent symptoms.
Potential Dangers
• Misdiagnosing stroke as Bell’s Palsy.
• Corneal ulceration from incomplete eyelid closure.
• Long-term muscle weakness or synkinesis.
• Chronic saliva duct blockage and facial swelling.
Conclusion
Bell’s Palsy is a sudden, distressing condition that can mimic stroke, but with correct diagnosis and timely treatment, most people recover well. Eye care and early corticosteroid therapy remain the cornerstones of acute management. Long-term vigilance is needed for complications such as synkinesis and salivary dysfunction.
Personal experiences, such as mine, highlight that while recovery is often favorable, the journey can include long-lasting challenges. Knowledge, early intervention, and supportive therapies can make all the difference
https://youtu.be/PkwgyTZPtxk?si=8bT4qblxcFOT3alL
