Bell's Palsy Case Study

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Case Study
Flaccid paralysis is a type of paralysis where one cannot contract their muscles at all. This type of paralysis is caused from toxins and infection. Examples of diseases range from Bell’s Palsy to polio to curare. All these diseases cause flaccid paralysis by preventing messages in the brain from getting to the nerves and muscles.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bell’s palsy is the most common cause of all facial paralysis. Every year 400,000 Americans are diagnosed with Bell’s palsy. (cite 1)
I believe that the patient could be suffering from Bell’s Palsy. Bell’s palsy is a form of temporary facial paralysis resulting from damage or trauma to the facial nerves. When this condition occurs, the function of the facial nerve is disrupted, causing an interruption in the messages the brain sends to the facial muscles, thus resulting in facial weaknesses or paralysis. (cite 4) Symptoms of Bell’s palsy are headache, dry eye and mouth, muscle twitches in the face, sensitivity to sound, drooling, difficulty eating or drinking, and facial weakness. (cite 2)
Bell’s Palsy is believed to be caused by a virus or bacteria; some of which include herpes simplex, HIV, sarcoidosis,
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After the patient was critically evaluated by the doctor, he would likely be started out on high dose steroids and antiviral medication, such as Famvir or Valtrex. (cite 3) The goal with these medications is to decrease the swelling in the facial nerves. The doctor would probably also tell the patient to take extra care of his eye by using eye drops and wearing an eyepatch, since he will not be able to blink. It would also be recommended to massage the face on the affected side, and in very rare cases the doctor may suggest surgery to reduce pressure on the facial nerves. (cite