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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Question Title: facial swelling related to bells?Forum: Neurology Forum
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I had bells palsy in 9/98, and have a 98% recovery. Last week the side of my face that had bells has become swollen. Most people would not notice, but I do. My eye closes when I yawn, my cheek is puffy. My question is would this have anything to do with bell? My dr. wants to put me on prednesione again, but I have strong feelings not to take that drug again. I am trying to find out reasons why 1/2 of your face would swell. I had the flu last week but I donot think that would be related. Thank you for your time.
Dear MaryJean: Sorry to hear about your Bell's palsy and now some facial swelling. Most of the time we are not sure the etiology of Bell's palsy. Since you have recently had a bout, it might be that your undergoing a flair of the disease. The most likely explanation is that the flu triggered the Bell's again. The utility of using steriods is to allow maximal healing. I think that I would tend to agree with your physician. Short term steriods are, for the most part, benign with little side effects. However, for maximal effect the earlier the better. I hope that your face returns to normal. Sincerely, CCF Neuro[P] MD
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