Matrix Science Medica (MSM)

Bell’s palsy is the most frequent cause of unilateral peripheral facial nerve palsy with an acute onset. Although the exact cause of Bell’s palsy is unknown, there is evidence that it is likely related to viral infections such herpes zoster virus and herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1). Bell’s palsy symptoms usually peak in the first week and then progressively go away over the course of three weeks to three months. It often occurs in patients with diabetes mellitus and in pregnant women. Diagnosis of Bell’s palsy is purely on clinical basis. Management of Bell’s palsy aims to achieve complete recovery and reduce negative sequelae of patients that do not resolve spontaneously. Treatment should be started early in the course of the disease and within 72 hours of onset. Both antiviral and corticosteroids are used as treatment strategies. Patients who get corticosteroids alone had better results than those who just receive antivirals, Additionally, antiviral medications are no more effective than a placebo.