Bell Palsy

Bell palsy is a form of facial weakness or paralysis that typically affects one side of the face. Bell palsy is a result of inflammation and dysfunction of the facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve). Although the exact cause of Bell palsy is not known, there is evidence that it may be related to viral infections. Some viruses associated with Bell palsy are those that cause cold sores (herpes simplex virus), chickenpox/shingles (varicella zoster virus), mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus), and respiratory infections (common cold viruses and influenza). Additional risk factors associated with developing the disease include pregnancy, obesity, diabetes, and a family history of Bell palsy.