Overview

Bell's palsy is paralysis or weakness of the muscles on one side of the face. Often children with Bell's palsy have a droop on one side of the mouth and have trouble completely shutting the eye on the same side. Bell's palsy can also interfere with the sense of taste. These things happen when a nerve in the face becomes inflamed. Bell's palsy is not caused by a stroke. The cause of the nerve inflammation is not known. Your child also may get medicine.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think your child is having a problem with the medicines. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
• Use artificial tears if your child's eyes are too dry. Bell's palsy can make your child's lower eyelid droop, causing a dry eye.
• If your child's eye cannot completely close, talk to your child's doctor about taping their eye shut with clear medical tape or using an eye patch at bedtime. This may help your child sleep.
• Have your child wear glasses or goggles to keep dust and dirt out of the eye.
• Help your child brush and floss their teeth often to help prevent tooth decay.