Bell's Palsy - What is it? Can Strike 1 in 60 of us!

Bell's Palsy - What is it?

Bell's Palsy is a condition that can strike 1 in 60 of us at any time of life. In 93% of those 1 in 60, it will only ever happen once. In the unfortunate 7% it can recur at an average frequency of around 10 years. It is usually a temporary condition causing paralysis of one side of the face. In 50% of cases all of the paralysis will disappear within 3 months. In 20% this will take up to 6 months and in another 10% it may take up to a year to achieve a complete recovery. The final 20% of sufferers: The healing of the seventh cranial nerve, also known as the facial nerve, can continue at the rate of about 0.5 - 1mm per day for up to around 18 months and some consultants would say up to 2 years for theirs to recover.

Living with Bell's Palsy

You wake up and one side of your face is paralyzed. You can’t blink, can’t smile and your speech is slurred. How and why did this happen? Is it treatable? Is it permanent? Nemcoff recounts her own experiences and treatments and offers tips and advice on how to overcome this sudden and curious disease. From eye care to medication and meditation, you can learn how to remain positive through your journey and in the end, put a smile on your face.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Marnie Suzanne Nemcoff is an award-winning marketer and health and fitness fanatic. She has written several articles for local newspapers and is very involved in community activities in her area. Nemcoff is the author of The New Rules of Engagement for newly engaged brides-to-be. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and son.