Question 1

What is Bell's Palsy?

Accepted Answer

Bell's palsy is a sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face caused by inflammation of the facial nerve. It is triggered by viral infections, particularly herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which causes the nerve to swell. The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG), Type Specific Antibodies test is the most important test for identifying HSV-1 as a potential underlying cause.

Question 2

What causes Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

Bell's palsy is caused by inflammation of the facial nerve, most commonly triggered by viral infections. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the same virus that causes cold sores, is believed to be the primary viral culprit in many cases. Other viruses that may contribute include varicella-zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and shingles), Epstein-Barr virus, and cytomegalovirus. When these viruses reactivate in the body, they can cause the facial nerve to swell within its narrow bony canal, leading to compression and the characteristic facial muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the face.

Question 3

What is the best test for Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG), Type Specific Antibodies test is the most important blood test for Bell's palsy because it detects antibodies against HSV-1, the virus most commonly associated with facial nerve inflammation. While Bell's palsy is primarily diagnosed through clinical examination of your facial symptoms, this blood test helps identify whether HSV-1 may be the underlying trigger. A positive result for HSV-1 antibodies, combined with your facial paralysis symptoms, suggests that viral reactivation contributed to the nerve inflammation. This information can influence your doctor's treatment decisions, particularly regarding the use of antiviral medications like acyclovir or valacyclovir alongside corticosteroids. While there is no single blood test that definitively diagnoses Bell's palsy itself, identifying the viral cause provides valuable insight for targeted treatment.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you suddenly develop weakness or paralysis on one side of your face, especially if you cannot close your eye, smile evenly, or control facial movements on that side. Testing is also important if you experience drooping of your mouth, drooling, changes in taste, increased sensitivity to sound in one ear, or pain around your jaw or behind your ear before or during the facial weakness. Getting tested early helps identify potential viral causes like HSV-1, which can guide treatment with antiviral medications and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and improve recovery. Early diagnosis and treatment within the first 72 hours of symptom onset offer the best chance for complete recovery.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

Bell's palsy symptoms appear suddenly, usually developing over a few hours to a couple of days. The most obvious sign is weakness or complete paralysis on one side of your face, making it difficult or impossible to smile, close your eye, or wrinkle your forehead on the affected side. You might notice your mouth drooping on one side, drooling, or difficulty eating and drinking. Other common symptoms include changes in taste, increased sensitivity to sound in one ear, pain or discomfort around your jaw or behind your ear, headache, and excessive tearing or dryness in one eye. Most people with Bell's palsy recover fully within three to six months, though some may have lingering weakness.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

Bell's palsy can affect anyone, but certain factors increase your risk. Pregnant women, especially during the third trimester or in the first week after delivery, have a higher risk. People with diabetes or upper respiratory infections like the flu or common cold are also more susceptible. If you have a family history of Bell's palsy or recurrent facial nerve paralysis, your risk is elevated. The condition most commonly affects people between ages 15 and 60, and occurs equally in men and women. People with compromised immune systems or active herpes simplex virus infections may also be at increased risk due to the viral connection.

Question 7

What happens if Bell's palsy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If Bell's palsy is left untreated, most people will still recover on their own, but the recovery may take longer and be less complete. Without treatment, about 70% of people fully recover, but early treatment with corticosteroids within 72 hours of symptom onset increases this to about 90%. Untreated Bell's palsy can lead to complications like permanent facial weakness or asymmetry, involuntary muscle contractions on the affected side, and synkinesis, where one facial movement triggers another unintended movement. Eye complications are particularly concerning if you cannot fully close your eye, as this can lead to corneal dryness, ulcers, and potential vision damage. Psychological effects from persistent facial differences can also impact quality of life, making prompt medical evaluation and treatment important.

Question 8

Can Bell's palsy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Bell's palsy cannot be directly diagnosed with a blood test alone, as diagnosis relies primarily on clinical examination of your facial symptoms and medical history. However, blood tests play an important supporting role in identifying potential viral triggers that may have caused the facial nerve inflammation. The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (IgG), Type Specific Antibodies test can detect HSV-1 antibodies, which helps determine if this virus may be the underlying cause. Your doctor may also order other tests to rule out conditions that mimic Bell's palsy, such as Lyme disease or other infections. Blood testing provides valuable information that can guide treatment decisions, particularly regarding the use of antiviral medications.

Question 9

How is Bell's palsy treated?

Accepted Answer

Bell's palsy is typically treated with corticosteroids like prednisone to reduce facial nerve inflammation and swelling, ideally started within 72 hours of symptom onset for best results. If blood tests indicate HSV-1 or another viral cause, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications like acyclovir or valacyclovir in combination with steroids. Eye protection is crucial if you cannot fully close your affected eye, including using artificial tears during the day, eye ointment at night, and wearing an eye patch or moisture chamber. Physical therapy and facial exercises can help maintain muscle tone and may speed recovery. Most people begin improving within two weeks and recover completely within three to six months, though some may need continued therapy.

Question 10

How can I prevent Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Bell's palsy, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy immune system through good nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. If you have recurrent herpes simplex infections, managing them with antiviral medications may help reduce the risk of HSV-1 triggering facial nerve inflammation. Practicing good hygiene, including frequent handwashing, can help prevent viral infections that may lead to Bell's palsy. If you are pregnant, attending regular prenatal care can help monitor risk factors. Protecting yourself from tick bites when in wooded areas reduces Lyme disease risk, which can cause similar facial paralysis. People with diabetes should maintain good blood sugar control, as this helps reduce nerve damage and inflammation risk.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Bell's palsy?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can support your recovery by performing gentle facial exercises like raising your eyebrows, closing your eyes tightly, smiling, and puckering your lips several times daily to maintain muscle tone. Protect your affected eye by using over-the-counter artificial tears every 1-2 hours during the day and applying lubricating eye ointment at night before sleep. Wear sunglasses or protective eyewear outdoors to shield your eye from dust and debris. Apply warm, moist heat to the affected side of your face with a warm washcloth to reduce pain and discomfort. Massage your facial muscles gently to improve circulation. Eat soft foods if chewing is difficult, and drink from a straw to prevent drooling. Avoid extreme temperatures and protect your face from cold wind, which may worsen symptoms.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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Bell's Palsy Blood Test

What is Bell's Palsy?

What causes Bell's palsy?

What is the best test for Bell's palsy?

When should I get tested for Bell's palsy?

References

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