COVID-19 is an emerging, rapidly evolving situation. It works in ways somewhat different than conventional beta blockers. Drug treatment is controversial, given that over 70% of patients will eventually recover normal facial function without treatment.
The recommendation to diagnose Bell's palsy only if there is no other cause of facial weakness or paralysis is based on consensus expert opinion in a US clinical practice guideline on Bell's palsy from the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF). The guideline is intended for all clinicians in any setting who are likely to diagnose and manage patients with Bell’s palsy.
The aetiology is still unclear, but it is known that the symptoms are caused by swelling and inflammation of the facial nerve. Bell’s palsy is characterised by an acute onset of unilateral, lower motor neuron weakness of the facial nerve in the absence of an identifiable cause. 2010 Feb;31(2):319-27. doi: 10.1097/MAO.0b013e3181cabd90.Neurology. Epub 2014 May 2.Laryngoscope.
2013 Nov;149(5):656-63. doi: 10.1177/0194599813506835.Otol Neurotol.
Steroids: The role in treatment of Bell's palsy in children is unclear, however streroids appear to benefit adults, particularly if given within 72 hours of onset and if complete palsy present.
Epub 2020 Jul 15.Guntinas-Lichius O, Volk GF, Olsen KD, Mäkitie AA, Silver CE, Zafereo ME, Rinaldo A, Randolph GW, Simo R, Shaha AR, Vander Poorten V, Ferlito A.Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. Usually, symptoms of Bell's palsy begin gradually and peak in 48 hours. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below.
There was moderate-quality evidence that the combination reduced long-term sequelae such as excessive tear production and synkinesis. The outcome for patients who received corticosteroids alone was significantly better than for those who received antivirals alone. Objective This article outlines the existing literature diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of Bell's palsy, specifically looking at the implications during pregnancy.
However, there is no evidence for any significant benefit. WebMD explains how it’s diagnosed and treated.
The treatment of Bell’s palsy aims to speed recovery and reduce long-term complications.
2013 Nov;149(5):656-63. doi: 10.1177/0194599813506835.Otol Neurotol.
Prednisolone (1mg/kg/day PO daily for 10 days) may be considered for Bell's palsy presenting within 72 hours of onset. There were no serious adverse effects in any group.