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Facial nerve paralysis

Also known as Bell's Palsy, this condition usually presents unilaterally and is best treated with corticosteroids and/or antivirals within 72hours of symptom onset. 

Symptoms include:

  • Rapid onset

  • Facial muscle weakness (almost always unilateral) involving the upper and lower parts of the face.

  • Ear pain on the affected side. 

  • Difficulty chewing

  • Incomplete eye closure and dry eye

  • Slurring of speech

Bells palsy.png

Refer patient to be seen within 24hours

References

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NICE. (n.d.). CKS is only available in the UK. [online] Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/bells-palsy/ [Accessed 7 Mar. 2024].

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