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If you have Bell's palsy, your face muscles suddenly become weak, probably on just one side of your face. You might find your face droops and you can't move one eyelid. This can be upsetting, but it is usually only temporary.

These are some of the symptoms you might get.^{1 2}

• Your face may droop on one side.
• You may find it difficult to close or open one eye.
• Your speech may be slurred.
• You may find it hard to keep saliva (spit) and drinks inside your mouth. So you might dribble from the affected side.
• Chewing food can be difficult on the affected side.
• You may get an ache behind your ear for a few days. But Bell's palsy isn't usually painful.³
• You may find loud sounds uncomfortable, and normal noises sound louder than usual.
• You may lose your sense of taste on the side of your tongue that is affected.
• You may not be able to frown or smile.

These symptoms might make you feel anxious and self-conscious. You might find communicating difficult if you can't use your face to smile or frown.

The weakness in your face muscles comes on quickly. It might get worse over the course of two days.⁴

How your face is affected depends on how serious the damage is to your nerve. The symptoms of Bell's palsy vary from person to person. You might have only a mild weakness. This is called partial palsy. Or you might not have any movement at all (paralysis) on one side of your face. This is called complete palsy. Some people get Bell's palsy (partial or complete) on both sides of their face, but this is rare.

If you can't close your eye properly, the eye may get dry and could get damaged. So you may need to use eye drops to keep it wet or surgical tape to keep it closed. Your doctor will be able to tell you what is most suitable for you.¹

Bell's palsy affects only the nerves and muscles in your face. If you feel weak or numb in other parts of your body, you should tell your doctor.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.