Bels Palsy

Question 1

What is bels palsy?

Answer 1

A peripheral facial paralysis, resulting from inflammation or compression of a cranial nerve within the temporal bone

Question 2

Signs and symptoms include…

Answer 2

1. Droopy eyelid
2. Dry eye or excessive tears
3. Facial paralysis
4. Drooping corner of the mouth
5. Impaired taste

Question 3

List some complications of bels palsy…

Answer 3

• Damage and infection to the eyes
• Misdiagnosis
• Cosmetically disfiguring
• Pain

Question 4

What is the cause of bels palsy?

Answer 4

Underlying cause = unknown
Although occurrence in late pregnancy and puerperium may be caused by odema, hypertension, pre-eclampsia and secondary to infection

Question 5

The role of the midwife includes…

Answer 5

• Appropriate referral
• Reassurance
• Psychological support
• Basic labour care
• Assist with oral medication as may be difficult (dribble)