Bell's palsy is temporary weakness or lack of movement affecting 1 side of the face. Most people get better within 9 months.
Non-urgent advice: See a GP if you have:
- weakness or total paralysis on 1 side of your face that develops within 2 days
- a drooping eyelid or corner of the mouth
- drooling
- a dry mouth
- a loss of taste
- eye irritation, such as dryness or more tears
These are symptoms of Bell's palsy
It's important to see a GP as soon as possible after developing these symptoms because treatment for Bell's palsy is more effective if started early (within 72 hours).
Immediate action required: Call 999 if the:
- face droops on 1 side (the mouth or eye may have drooped)
- person cannot lift up both arms and keep them there
- person has difficulty speaking (speech may be slurred or garbled)
These can be signs of a more serious condition, like a stroke.
Unlike Bell's palsy, the symptoms of a stroke usually come on suddenly.
Treatment from a GP
Treatments for Bell's palsy include:
- a 10-day course of steroid medicine
- eyedrops and eye ointment to stop the affected eye drying out
- surgical tape to keep the eye closed at bedtime
Your GP might prescribe a type of steroid called prednisolone. Treatment with prednisolone should begin within 3 days (72 hours) of the symptoms starting.
Bell's palsy is rare in children, and most children who are affected make a full recovery without treatment.
How long Bell's palsy lasts
Most people make a full recovery within 9 months, but it can take longer. In a small number of cases, the facial weakness can be permanent.
Go back to see a GP if you have facial weakness or paralysis after 6 to 9 months. Surgery might be a possible treatment option.
You cannot prevent Bell's palsy
Because it's probably caused by an infection, Bell's palsy cannot be prevented. It may be linked to the herpes virus.
You'll usually only get Bell's palsy once, but it can sometimes come back. This is more likely if you have a family history of the condition.
Page last reviewed: 1 August 2017
Next review due: 1 August 2020