Patient's question:
I had facial paralysis 2 years ago, but it was later cured. Now I feel something is wrong again, as if it has recurred. Can it still be cured? Can facial paralysis recur and be cured?Doctor's answer:
The treatment principles for Bell's palsy aim to enhance local inflammation, edema, and early resolution, as well as promote complete recovery of nerve function. For peripheral facial nerve palsy caused by viral infection, medications such as antivirals, neurotrophic agents, corticosteroids, and B vitamins can be used. Protecting exposed corneas and preventing conjunctivitis can be achieved with eye patches, eye drops, and ointments. Massage, involving manual manipulation of the facial muscles affected by palsy, should be performed several times a day, with each session lasting 5 to 10 minutes. Physical therapy, including shortwave therapy, low-to-mid frequency electrotherapy, laser therapy, and drug infusion, is commonly employed. If the facial nerve palsy has not fully recovered after three months of conservative treatment, and both facial nerve conduction velocity tests and electromyography (EMG) of the facial muscles show no response (no potential movement), surgical intervention may be considered.