facial swelling related to bells?

  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.

[CCF Neuro[P] MD RPS]

_
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