Bell’s Palsy is a paralysis condition of the face, typically occurring only on one side. While this condition does not pose much threat, it is extremely uncomfortable physically as well as emotionally. Symptoms can last between two weeks to 6 months and full recovery may not be 100%. Full recovery means the face will go back to completely normal, but some people could have lasting remnants of very slight paralysis or a decrease in full range of movement or expression to particular areas that were affected, like the mouth, eye, or eyebrow. The precise cause of Bell’s palsy is unknown in Western medicine, but it’s believed to stem from inflammation or compression to cranial nerve number 7 (responsible for facial control), because of a microbial invasion, a virus or bacteria, affecting the cranial nerve. These microbes can include herpes simplex virus, chicken pox virus, shingles virus, Epstein-Barr, cytomegalovirus, respiratory illness (adenovirus), rubella, mumps, flu (influenza B), coxsackie virus, and Lyme disease.
From a traditional Chinese medicine point of view, Bell’s palsy is caused by an “External Wind Cold” invasion. Bell’s palsy often comes on overnight and quickly. Some people experience few early symptoms, which can include neck pain, pain behind the ear, or pain in the back of the head. Once Bell’s palsy occurs, the muscles on the side of the face affected lose function, resulting in an inability to close an eyelid, drooling, excessive tearing, dry eyes, problems drinking, difficulty eating, swallowing, and speaking. It’s not uncommon for people to worry that they had a stroke, but Bell’s palsy and strokes are very different. Bell’s palsy is temporary and passes with time. Strokes can have have life-threatening or life-changing affects.
In Chinese medicine, as in Western medicine, those who develop Bell’s palsy typically have some underlying deficiency or a condition that has depleted their body in one way or another. Fatigue, stress, illness, trauma, pregnancy, auto immune condition are some likely culprits. In other words, the body is in a weaker state as a result of an underlying condition. Acupuncture can help increase nerve function to the face, decreasing and relieving symptoms of Bell’s palsy more quickly. Herbs and massage can also be beneficial.
About 40,000 Americans get Bell’s palsy a year, striking men and women equally. Many may be put on steroids to decrease the inflammation. Acupuncture and medication combined can speed up the healing.
Contributor
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.