Bell's Palsy

Definition

Bell's Palsy is form of Neuritis that involves paralysis of the facial nerve causing weakness of the muscles of one side of the face and an inability to close the eye.

Cause

Unknown. (Recovery may occur spontaneously.)

Effect

Paralysis of the facial nerve; weakness of the muscles of one side of the face; may result in inability to close the eye.
(In some cases the patient's hearing may also be affected in such a way that sounds seem to him/her to be abnormally loud. Loss of taste sensation may also occur.)