When I first experienced Bell’s Palsy on the 31st of October 2021, it was an unforgettable evening. I was enjoying a quiet dinner, winding down from a regular day, when suddenly, I felt the left side of my face go numb affecting my facial movement and facial expression. I remember thinking, this can’t be happening.
Just an hour before, I’d seen a television ad about recognising the signs of a stroke, and those exact symptoms were unfolding right in front of me.
Panicked, I called for an ambulance, which took a nerve-wracking 45 minutes to arrive. The wait felt like a lifetime, exacerbating my feelings of uncertainty and weakness. But once the paramedics arrived, they were incredibly efficient, reassuring, and caring, taking me directly to the John Radcliffe Hospital.
The hospital staff were thorough, running a series of tests to rule out any major concerns like a stroke or Lyme disease, which can also cause facial palsy. I was relieved when they confirmed it was Bell’s Palsy and not something more severe. However, I was left with mixed feelings about my prognosis and the support I could expect moving forward. Here’s a look at my journey since that night and the tools that have helped me manage life with Bell’s Palsy.
The Reality of Bell’s Palsy: Adjusting to My New Normal
Bell’s Palsy, is a condition that causes temporary facial paralysis due to cranial nerve inflammation. In my case, it affected only one side of the face, which came with both its challenges and its small blessings. My symptoms weren’t severe enough to require surgery or antiviral medicine but I was advised to start a 10-day course of steroids. They hoped this would reduce inflammation and speed up the recovery process, potentially alleviating the symptoms of facial palsy.
Despite the initial relief of diagnosis, I still faced lingering symptoms that may include fatigue and discomfort. My left nostril didn’t shut properly when I breathed, and I experienced occasional headaches—something I still deal with today. Though subtle, these changes served as a constant reminder that my body was still recovering. What’s more, there was always a lingering fear that the symptoms might return, which kept me on high alert about my health and lifestyle choices.
Managing Bell’s Palsy Symptoms: Tools and Treatments That Helped
Though Bell’s Palsy has no guaranteed cure, I explored a variety of products and strategies that brought me relief and, ultimately, helped me regain a sense of normalcy.
1. Eye Drops for Dry Eye Relief
Due to the partial facial paralysis, my left eyelid didn’t blink as effectively as before, leading to dry eye issues. I’ve found over-the-counter eye drops to be immensely helpful in keeping my eyes comfortable and reducing irritation. They provide instant relief and using them daily has prevented dryness and helped me avoid further eye strain or discomfort.
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2. Heat Pads for Facial Nerve Relaxation
Using a heat pad has become a daily routine for me. Applying gentle heat to the side of the face, particularly around my jaw and cheek area, seems to relax the facial muscles and ease the tension. I’ve noticed that using it in the evening not only alleviates discomfort but also helps me feel more relaxed overall, particularly after a long day.
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3. Massage Devices for Muscle Stimulation
Regular massage to the affected side has been another great ally. While Bell’s Palsy isn’t necessarily painful, the paralysis can lead to some stiffness. A small handheld massage device allows me to target the muscles in my face and neck, stimulating blood flow and, in my experience, supporting the nerve recovery process. Consistency has been key with this tool; even five to ten minutes a day has helped tremendously.
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Challenges with NHS Medical Support and Self-Care Strategies
The initial support from the NHS was fantastic—they acted quickly to ensure I wasn’t dealing with a stroke. However, after the diagnosis, the medical attention I received dropped off significantly. With Bell’s Palsy, once you’re diagnosed, you’re often left to manage the condition on your own unless symptoms worsen, which may include increased facial weakness. Many people end up consulting neurologists or ENT specialists for further support, but I was fortunate enough to avoid these additional steps.
Knowing that stress, sleep deprivation, and lifestyle choices might influence my recovery, I’ve become far more mindful of self-care. Here are a few personal habits I’ve adopted to reduce my risk of a recurrence:
- Managing Stress: I’ve had to become more aware of my stress levels and make time for activities that help me unwind. Taking walks, meditating, and even journaling have helped me release tension.
- Ensuring Restful Sleep: Good sleep is non-negotiable. Over time, I’ve recognised that lack of sleep can lead to those recurring headaches and general fatigue, which in turn make me feel more susceptible to symptoms.
- Moderating Stimulants: While I used to enjoy my coffee, I now limit caffeine to avoid spikes in stress or overstimulation. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and other substances that might interfere with my body’s natural rhythms has been crucial in maintaining my health.
Reflections and Advice for Others Facing Bell’s Palsy
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to listen to my body. Our nervous system can be fragile, and Bell’s Palsy, though generally not life-threatening, has taught me to appreciate the signals my body sends regarding my facial weakness. If I push myself too hard, work late, or skip on rest, I start noticing the subtle signs—like a slight headache or muscle tension—that remind me to slow down.
For anyone going through Bell’s Palsy, here are a few takeaways from my experience:
- Stay Patient: Recovery is often gradual. While the initial shock may fade, patience is essential. Celebrate small milestones—every bit of progress counts.
- Experiment with Self-Care Tools: I highly recommend exploring different self-care tools, like eye drops, heat pads, and massage devices. They’ve not only relieved symptoms but also provided me with a sense of control over my recovery.
- Seek Support, but Advocate for Yourself: The medical system when it comes to Bell’s Palsy may not always offer the ongoing support we’d like. Don’t hesitate to seek out other resources and specialists if needed, but also trust yourself to navigate your unique needs.
Final Thoughts
While Bell’s Palsy took me by surprise, it has taught me to take better care of myself and appreciate the importance of rest and recovery. Even though I still live with mild aftereffects, I’ve learned to manage them, preventing them from controlling my life. I’m grateful for the relief products I’ve discovered and the adjustments I’ve made to stay resilient. To anyone experiencing Bell’s Palsy: know that, while it may feel overwhelming, with time, patience, and a few supportive tools, recovery is achievable.
Please seek medical advice if you suffer any of the symptoms mentioned in this blog, I’m not a medical professional and anything written is my opinion only.
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