Monitoring
Patients with Bell’s palsy should be seen again within 1-2 weeks of the initial visit, to monitor response to pharmacologic treatment and to assess the condition of the eye. Subsequently, follow-up may occur monthly or at 3-month intervals to monitor recovery. Absence of any sign of recovery of function at 3-4 months following the onset of Bell's palsy should prompt imaging studies to rule out neoplastic disease. Failure to demonstrate any return of hemi-facial tone or movement within 4-6 months suggests an alternative diagnosis. In the authors’ experience, many patients with severe Bell’s palsy will show no sign of recovery for 3-4 months.
There is a strong link between facial paralysis and psychosocial issues in patients. Practitioners should be aware of possible depression or anxiety symptoms in patients with Bell's palsy and treat as appropriate.[91][92]
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer