Philadelphia 76ers All-Star heart Joel Embiid has been recognized with Bell’s palsy, a situation that may strike out of the blue and trigger muscle tissue on one facet of an individual’s face to change into weak or paralyzed, distorting expression.
Right here’s what to know in regards to the largely momentary situation:
WHAT IS BELL’S PALSY?
Bell’s palsy happens when one thing inflames or injures a nerve that controls facial muscle tissue. Signs come on quickly over two to a few days. They’ll embody issue closing an eyelid, a drooping eye or mouth or paralysis of a complete half of the face.
Circumstances could be delicate or extreme.
It might have an effect on anybody however is most certainly to happen between the ages of 15 and 45, in line with the Nationwide Institutes of Well being.
WHAT CAUSES BELL’S PALSY?
Nobody is aware of. However folks extra in danger embody those that have hypertension, diabetes, weight problems or are pregnant.
It’s been related to infections such because the herpes simplex virus and Epstein-Barr virus, in addition to Lyme illness and autoimmune issues. The NIH says different attainable triggers could embody impaired immune reactions to minor sicknesses or damage.
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED AND TREATED?
There isn’t a single take a look at to diagnose Bell’s palsy however docs begin by bodily inspecting facial muscle tissue. It’s vital to hunt care to rule out extra critical circumstances equivalent to a stroke.
Therapy will depend on the particular person’s signs and severity. Docs could prescribe steroidal drugs to scale back the nerve irritation or antivirals. If there’s any involvement of the eyelid, sufferers obtain care to guard the attention from dryness, equivalent to an eyepatch or eye drops or ointments.
Thankfully, Bell’s palsy is momentary for the overwhelming majority of sufferers. The NIH says most recuperate some or all facial perform inside just a few weeks to 6 months.
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The Related Press Well being and Science Division receives assist from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Academic Media Group. The AP is solely chargeable for all content material.
