Treatment of Bell Palsy using Facial Exercises in Primary Health Care: A Case Report

Abstract

In this case report, a patient with Bell palsy received treatment with facial exercises and lubricating drops, A complete recovery was achieved four weeks after presentation. There were no sequelae. Sir Charles Bell described the anatomy of the facial nerve and its association with unilateral facial paralysis in 1821. Since then, idiopathic facial paralysis has been termed Bell's palsy. Bell's palsy describes an acute, unilateral facial paralysis [1]. The annual incidence rate is estimated to be between 13 and 53 cases per 100,000 populations [2]. This disease affects approximately 1 in 65 people in a lifetime. Incidence peaks between the ages of 15-45 years [3]. The diagnosis of Bell palsy is made clinically. This entity is a clinical diagnosis after exclusion of the other etiologies of facial paralysis through an astute patient history, physical examination, and laboratory or imaging studies if necessary [4]. Face to face contact is an essential component of human interaction. Facial nerve palsy is devastating and, without appropriate therapy, may result in permanent disfigurement [3]. Consequently, the facial paralysis can have a significant negative impact on one’s psychosocial well-being. Identification and management of patients to optimize return of facial function is crucial [1].