It is not right to ignore ear pain (symbolic picture)
Digital Desk, Indore. Ear pain is considered common, but if it is ignored then it can also be the beginning of facial paralysis. A continuous increase in the cases of Bell's Palsy is being seen during the winter season. Every week 7 to 10 new patients are arriving in big hospitals including MY Hospital of Indore. According to doctors, most of the patients ignore the pain behind the ear in the initial days by considering it as normal, whereas this is the first and important sign of Bell's Palsy.
This is Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy is commonly called facial paralysis. In this, there is sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. This condition usually occurs due to swelling or pressure on the facial nerve. However, only the facial muscles are affected, while the arms and legs remain completely normal.
Doctors say that there is a big difference between Bell's palsy and normal paralysis (stroke). In stroke, the brain is affected, due to which symptoms like weakness in face, hands and legs, difficulty in speaking and loss of balance are seen. At the same time, in Bell's Palsy only the facial nerve is affected and if timely treatment is received, it can be completely cured.
According to Dr. Alok Mandalia, Neurophysician, Bombay Hospital, Indore, the risk of Bell's Palsy increases in cold weather. During cold and cough, the virus enters the body through the throat and can later affect the facial nerve. Many times this virus remains dormant in the body and becomes active as soon as the immunity weakens.
Pay attention to two main symptoms
Apart from this, inability to close the eyes completely and weakness in the face can also be its signs.
When to go to the doctor
The first 24 to 48 hours are very important in Bell's palsy. If anti-viral medicines and medicines to reduce inflammation are started during this period, then the chances of complete recovery of the patient increases significantly. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage to the nerve.
In treatment, steroids are given along with anti-viral medicines, which reduce inflammation. Taking steroids can increase blood pressure and sugar, so regular checkups are necessary during treatment. Physiotherapy also plays an important role in recovery.
With timely treatment, proper intake of medicines and physiotherapy, about 95 percent of patients become completely healthy.
Common misconceptions and truths
Myth: Facial curvature means stroke.
Truth: Stroke does not happen every time, in many cases it can also be Bell's Palsy.