How is Bells Palsy Treated?
There is no cure or standard course of treatment for Bell’s palsy. The most important factor in treatment is to eliminate the source of the nerve damage. Bell’s palsy affects each individual differently. Some cases are mild and do not require treatment as the symptoms usually subside on their own within 2 weeks. For others, treatment may include medications and other therapeutic options. Recent studies have shown that steroids are an effective treatment for Bell’s palsy and that an antiviral drug such as acyclovir (used to fight viral infections) combined with an anti-inflammatory drug such as the steroid prednisone (used to reduce inflammation and swelling) may be effective in improving facial function by limiting or reducing damage to the nerve. Analgesics such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen may relieve pain. Another important factor in treatment is eye protection. Bell’s palsy can interrupt the eyelid’s natural blinking ability, leaving the eye exposed to irritation and dry
