Is it possible for a cortisone shot to cause bells palsy

[Shane335]

In March of this year I recieved a cortisone type (distent relative) shot in my left shoulder for chronic pain from years of competitive swimming.  On May 23rd I woke up with severe, I mean severe pain in ear, neck and left side on my head.  Two days later - I was diagnosed with bells palsy.  It now is Labor day weekend and I woked up with a slight ear ache.  I am freeking out.  Any suggestions.  Could this be coming back or is it something else.

[Shane335]

I have had a MRI which did not show anything adnormal.  I have also been tested for Lyme disease.  Do you know of anyother diseases that could cause the same symptoms as bells palsey

[caregiver222]

Very unlikely that the shot had anything to do with the diagnosis. Cortisone is an immune depressant and if your immune system is weak it could precipitate a minor ear infection, but again, this is unlikely from a single shot. I would get a second opinion about the alleged "Bell's Palsey".