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Bell's Palsy

Bell's palsy is an idiopathic facial paresis that has been attributed to an inflammatory reaction involving the A relationship of Bell's palsy to reactivation of herpes simplex virus.

The clinical features of Bell's palsy are complex. Treatment is indicated for patients in whom an unsatisfactory outcome can be predicted.

The best clinical guide to progress is the severity of the palsy during the first few days after presentation. Patients with clinically complete palsy when first seen are less likely to make a complete recovery.

Medical treatments that may influence the outcome include acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), and corticosteroids for Bell's palsy.