Symptoms of Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy is a weakness that effects the muscles of the face. It develops suddenly, usually on one side of the face. The cause is not clear but most cases are probably due to a viral infection. Most people make a full recovery within 2-3 months. A course of steroid tablets started within 72 hours of it starting improves the chance of full recovery even further. You should protect your eye if you cannot close your eyelids fully.

Weakness of the face, which is usually one-sided. The weakness normally develops quickly, over a few hours or so. You may first notice the weakness after getting up in the morning and so it may appear quite dramatic. It may gradually become worse over several days. The effects of the weakness vary, depending on whether the nerve is partially or fully affected. These include the following:

-- You may lose the sense of taste on the side of the tongue that is affected.
-- You may not be able to close an eye. This may cause a watery or dry eye.
-- You may not be able to wrinkle your forehead, whistle or blow out your cheek.
-- Your face may droop to one side. When you smile, only half of your face may move.
-- Chewing food on the affected side may be a problem. Food may become trapped between your gum and cheek.
-- Most cases are painless or cause just a mild ache. However, some people develop some pain near the ear which can last for a few days.
-- Loud sounds may be uncomfortable and normal noises may sound louder than usual. This is because a tiny muscle in the ear may stop working.
-- You may have some difficulty with speech, as the muscles in the side of the face help in forming some words. For example, words beginning with a P.