Bell's Palsy is a nerve condition which affects nearly 40,000 people in the United States every year. It is muscle paralysis or weakness that affects only your face. Unrelated to strokes, Bell's Palsy is a relatively mild condition that usually passes in its own time. While there is much speculation as to the cause of Bell's Palsy, there are many triggers, and the causes may vary from patient to patient.
Swollen Facial Nerve
The seventh cranial facial nerve is the nerve that controls most of a person's facial movements. When this nerve is damaged or experiences some type of trauma that causes inflammation, it can result in Bell's Palsy.
Getting Pinched by Bone
The seventh cranial facial nerve is surrounded by bone and must pass through this bone to reach the face. If this facial nerve is swollen for whatever reason, it can get pinched within the surrounding bone. When the pressure put on the nerve by the bone damages the protective covering of the nerve, it confuses communication between the nerve and facial muscles. This is how the paralysis occurs.
Herpes Simplex Virus
The inflammation of the seventh cranial facial nerve can be caused by several factors, the most probable being the Herpes Simplex Virus. This virus--commonly known to cause cold sores and even genital herpes--will often lay dormant at the root of the facial nerve. When the virus reactivates, it irritates the facial nerve, causing swelling, inflammation and ultimately Bell's Palsy.
The Role of Other Common Viruses
Despite its commonness, the Herpes Simplex virus is not the only virus known to bring on Bell's Palsy. Other viruses such as Herpes Zoster (known to cause Shingles and Chicken Pox) and the Epstein Barr Virus (known to cause Mononucleosis) are also closely linked to causing inflammation of the facial nerve.
The Role of Facial Injuries
Anything that causes the seventh cranial facial nerve to swell can cause the onset of Bell's Palsy. Any kind of facial trauma--such as getting hit in the face--may also play a role in short-term paralysis.
Triggers from Other Illnesses
Bell's Palsy may be triggered by simple illnesses, such as the cold, flu and ear infections. It can also be brought on by more serious conditions such as Diabetes and Lyme Disease.
Risk Factors
Bell's Palsy can occur at any age, but those most susceptible to it are between the ages of 15 and 60. It is not uncommon for pregnant women to develop this condition. It is also more prevalent in individuals of Japanese decent. While there is no way to prevent the onset of such a condition, it is easily managed. It generally subsides within a short period of time.
Tags: Bell Palsy, cranial facial, cranial facial nerve, facial nerve, facial nerve, seventh cranial