Although the cause of Bell’s Palsy is not known, using modern medicine with holistic methods could provide rapid relief

• Written by Dr. Chetana BS and Seetha Lakshmi Venu

Bell’s Palsy can be managed by holistic methods | Illustration by Syalima Das

“I was unaware of my condition until my sister noticed that the left half of my face had begun to droop,” Hema Shivaji Manthale, 34, from Latur, Maharashtra, tells Happiest Health.

 Inherent The root causes

“The factors that cause Bell’s Palsy are not known. But, there may be causes that are intrinsic to the condition, like tumors, injuries or congenital disorders, as well as the presence of autoimmune disorders,” says Dr. Khushbu Goel, a neurologist at Manipal Hospital, Delhi. She gives a list of reasons that cause compression of the cranial nerves. These include the 7th cranial nerve, which regulates facial muscles.

“The nerve can get inflamed or damaged due to viral infections like herpes zoster, HIV or bacterial infection,” she declares. Also, people with underlying medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension, diabetes, and other respiratory infections, and pregnant women suffering from pre-eclampsia (a condition that causes an increase in blood pressure) could be in danger, says Dr. Goel.

The condition restricts the nerve’s path, thereby hindering the transmission of signals by neurons. Ultimately, the facial muscles become weaker and droop, manifesting as Bell’s Palsy or idiopathic facial paralysis. Based on the US National Institute of Health, Bell’s Palsy is the most frequent facial paralysis that typically affects only one aspect of the face. In rare cases, it could be involved on both sides.

Sudden onset

The symptoms of this condition are usually swift and progressive, presenting in a matter of a week. The muscles that are weak cause the affected lip or eyelid to close. Drooling and slurred speech are common. In some cases, patients experience difficulties with smell and taste and irritability with noise. Excessive liquids, watery eyes, and earache.

According to a recent survey, Bell’s Palsy is shared across all genders and age groups. However, it is more common in the middle age (in the late 40s) group, but it is less in children.

Researchers are also investigating different ways to treat the disease. Electrostimulation and biofeedback are among the latest treatment methods that are secure and effective in treating Bell’s Palsy.

In a study of this kind in one study, 196 patients who were diagnosed at an early stage with Bell’s Palsy received transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) to stimulate muscles and nerves below the skin to trigger motion in the affected muscles. Researchers discovered statistically significant improvements in the health of patients.

Another study has shown that children don’t require medicine to treat steroidal issues that cause Bell’s Palsy.

Manthale’s medical records did not reveal any serious health issue which could cause the condition. However, a number of her relatives were affected by the state.

The holistic approach

Manthale’s family members advised her to seek Ayurveda treatments alongside modern medicine for more rapid relief.

Doctor Vijay Kumar Srivastava, a professor at Banaras Hindu University’s Faculty of Ayurveda, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, highlights how Ayurveda helps Bell’s Palsy. He says the condition is referred to as an audit. This is the flow blockage of the air component (vata dosha) within the nerve system. “In addition to the blockage in the nerve pathways (srotas or nadis), an unhealthy lifestyle, old age, and malnourishment could be other contributing factors for Bell’s palsy,” he says.

Ayurveda seeks to restore the air element that is disturbed back to an ideal state and to strengthen facial muscles. The treatment program involves lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), cleansing (panchakarma or oil-based massages), and medicines.

Dr. Srivastava praises the advantages of nasyam, which involves administering medicinal oils by the nose. He states that “nasal therapy plays an important role in treating the disease and is among the most effective methods of treatment for patients whose nervous system or brain is affected. The medication reaches the brain in a short time and works upon the brain’s .” it.

In addition to the treatment, he adds that pathyam or restriction on diet can help the process.

Best of both

Dr. Santosh Balode from the Siddha Ayurveda Hospital in Hyderabad placed Manthale on Ayurvedic treatments and lifestyle changes. “We requested that she not consume spicy, oily food items, as well as non-vegetarian. Also, she was asked to do simple facial exercises such as chewing and puffing the cheeks.” Says Dr. Balode.

Also, according to Dr. Srivastava, avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme cold, ensuring good blood pressure, and getting enough sleep will help lower the risk of developing Bell’s Palsy.

The success rate for recovery depends on a prompt medical consult and the patient’s determination, as per Dr. Balode. “My doctor’s words of encouragement helped me feel more confident and positive. It helped me recover within one year,” says Manthale.