The Healthier Life
Receive valuable daily health tips and advice FREE by email
The Daily Health
Nutrition and Healing
Search our database of articles.

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
Keyword Search
 

Related products

13 FREE reports containing forbidden cures

FORBIDDEN CURES

Claim 13 FREE reports containing forbidden natural cures the medical establishment doesn't want you to have
more info...
Super Foods Book

NEW! . . . SUPER FOODS FOR A SUPER-HEALTHY YOU

Unleash the secret healing power of Nature's ultimate foods - & 'programme' your body to remain free of illness
more info...
Brain & Nervous System

Bells Palsy Treatment: The Natural Way To Improve Symptoms


Date: 01/06/02
 
If you have ever had an anaesthetic at the dentist then you have some idea of what it might be like to suffer from Bell's Palsy - a form of paralysis that affects the facial nerve...the most potent cure for Bell's Palsy is probably sitting in your medicine kit or supplement cupboard already: humble vitamin B12...

Surgeon's KnifeIf you’d rather avoid an appointment with this man, then sign-up to the FREE Daily Health eletter...
where good health comes naturally!

If you have ever had an anaesthetic at the dentist then you have some idea of what it might be like to suffer from Bell's Palsy - a form of paralysis that affects the facial nerve. Speaking is difficult and showing how you feel by smiling or frowning is well nigh impossible.

Add to that the fact that you are unable to stop yourself from drooling, and your eyes from watering and you have an idea of how distressing this condition can be.

The causes of Bell's Palsy are as yet unknown - but it effects one in four thousand people. And, although it usually improves within three weeks to six months, for 10 per cent of sufferers it recurs, and a few suffer it indefinitely. Diabetics, those who have high blood pressure, and pregnant women are more likely to be affected compared to the general population.

By reducing your blood pressure and your blood sugar level you will go a long way to reducing your risk. However, if you or someone you know is suffering from this condition, it is vitally important that you act swiftly to ensure a full recovery. You can treat this form of paralysis effectively and quickly using natural remedies.

Bell's Palsy: The warning headache you can't afford to ignore

Affected patients may first notice an ache over their temple that may last for a day or two. Then the muscle weakness develops. This only affects one side of the face and, unlike a stroke, it does not affect the arms or the legs. The eye on the affected side of the face cannot close fully and the mouth droops to one side.

There could be problems with enunciating words and difficulty in chewing. The symptoms are generally mild, and in some cases Bell's Palsy may not cause any appreciable changes in the facial appearance.

The dangers of conventional treatments for Bell's Palsy

Traditionally, Bell's Palsy has been treated with steroid drugs, such as prednisolone or methylprednisolone. These powerful agents reduce the inflammation of the nerve and help the muscles of the face regain their strength. Doctors may also suggest treatment with an anti-viral medication such as acyclovir, as it is believed that the nerve inflammation is actually caused by a viral infection (Acta Otorhinolaryngal 1988, 446: 114-118).

However, these drugs are not always effective. In fact, a recent major scientific review of all the information available on treatment of Bell's Palsy concluded that treatment with steroids does not seem to offer any significant benefits (Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2002;(1):CD001942).

And as Nutrition and Healing has long been aware, steroids may cause side effects such as stomach upsets, thrush, irregular periods, weight gain and depression, whereas acyclovir may cause jaundice, skin rashes, dizziness, tiredness and kidney failure.

Bell's Palsy: Vitamin B12 cuts recovery time from 10 weeks to just two!

In fact, the most potent cure for Bell's Palsy is probably sitting in your medicine kit or supplement cupboard already: humble vitamin B12. This vitamin actively protects nerves, reduces nerve inflammation (Altern. Med. Rev. 1998,3(6):461-463) and reduces the
Sign up to The Daily Health e-letter - it’s FREE!    ("We value your privacy!")

In just 5 minutes every day, it will tell you what’s working, what isn’t – and what may harm you in both orthodox and alternative medicine.


“The HSI Daily Health e-Alerts contain scattered nuggets and gems of
health and nutritional wisdom.A very useful source of information about new thinking and
innovative treatments for a wide range of conditions.” - Dr AB, FRCS

amounts of nerve irritants such as the toxic chemical glutamate.

In an experiment studying 60 patients with Bell's Palsy, vitamin B12 was found to be more effective that treatment with steroids, in terms of hastening recovery of the symptoms. Patients on the vitamin B12 treatment recovered on average after two weeks, whereas those on steroids recovered after about 10 weeks (Method. Find. Exp. Clin. Pharmacol. 1995,17(8):539-544).

The dose of vitamin B12 is 500 mcg three times a week by injection. It is also possible to get vitamin B12 in 5 mg lozenges that can be taken up to eight times a day.

In addition to vitamin B12, another nutrient, acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) was found to improve the symptoms of Bell's palsy (Neurol. 1997,12(1):23-30).

This makes sense because ALC is an anti-inflammatory compound used in a variety of neurological diseases such as nerve injury, nerve weakness and memory problems. ALC reduces damage due to free radicals, preserves production of energy within the nerve cells, and stabilises the membrane of the nerve (Ann. N. Y. Acad. Sci. 2001, 939:162-178).

Other Alternative Treatments To Beat Bell's Palsy:

Anti-inflammatory nutrient, the sulphur-containing nutrient Methyl-Sulphonyl-Methane (MSM), 500 mg three times a day, and histamine. Although histamine in large amounts is toxic to the body, causing allergies, small amounts are effective in reducing inflammation in general, and Bell's Palsy in particular (Ear Nose Throat J. 1999, 78(5):366-370). Histamine is not generally available in tablet form, but the nutrient carnosine that regulates the production of histamine is available in doses of 100 mg a day.

Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 (in addition to vitamin B12) (Minerva Pediatr. 1996, 48(6):245-250). All of these vitamins are particularly effective at boosting other factors that nourish the nerve. They are used in any form of nerve damage or brain failure. The dose for vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is 50 mg three times a day, that of vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is 50mg three times a day, and that of B6 (Pyridoxine) is 50 mg - 100 mg three times a day, but it is best to take this only short-term, as long-term intake of high doses of vitamin B6 may potentially cause more harm than good.

The chemical Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) is an essential agent involved in producing energy in the cells. Experiments using this nutrient together with the vitamins of the B group mentioned above, show that this combination can have a measurable impact on the recovery from Bell's Palsy. The results showed that 100% of those patients who had a partial paralysis of the nerve, and up to 87% of those who had full paralysis recovered completely. In contrast, only 67% of patients treated with steroids recovered (Eur. Arch. Otorin. 1991,248(3):147- 149). Boost your body's production of ATP by taking Mitochondrial Resuscitate.
Did you find this information useful?
Then why not get more expert health recommendations just like this
delivered direct to your inbox
Sign up here to The Daily Health e-letter - it's FREE!     ("We value your privacy!")


"It is truly refreshing to read a newsletter on the topic of alternative medicine which is scientifically based and reviewed by professionals………" - Robert Sinott
Back to top

Click here to send to a friendShare thisPrinter friendly version

Comments

abas Posted 17/05/2008

i have this bell palsy and its still not cured after 6 months and i have been doing all of these treatments and its still not working. what shall i do??

Pierre Posted 21/05/2008

Hi, you can speed up recovery 5 times just by using B12. Read the article

Sophie Posted 03/06/2008

Well I've had it for 7 years and meds didn't work so I'm looking into micro-electric current treatments.

tony scott Posted 06/06/2008

good article

elizabeth kwanga Posted 07/06/2008

i have had bells palsy for ten years and the pain comes and goes. what can i do to be pain free?

JP Posted 07/06/2008

we have a good friend with Bell's Palsy and we will give it a try. He has had the symptoms for over a week now

MF Posted 15/06/2008

My father aged 80 has bells palsy, and 2 weeks ago he also had an infected ear on the same side. His doctor treated him with steroids (prednisone) and ear and eye drops - he's now just about 100% back to normal. I do believe very strongly in B12 and folic acid together, as well as MSM, as I have taken both for different problems.

KH Posted 16/06/2008

I had bell's palsy about 5 years ago. Up until last year I had been about 75% recovered. And most people except doctors who were familiar with it couldn't tell I had had BP. Then I had a few acupuncture sessions with electro-stimulation in 2007 and it helped me feel 90% recovered- I was amazed. I felt acupuncture with electro stimulation was the only thing that helped me after conventional western approaches had nothing left to offer. I know this is anecdotal - but I believe it worked for me. Unfortunately the BP struck again in May 2008, luckily I had it before so I am not so emotionally disturbed by it and know that recovery is possible, though slow. However this time I believe my recovery is being speeded up and here is what I am doing. In the 1st week I took prednisone, and acyclovir, and motrin and I began acupuncture. I also changed my diet and include vitamin supplements with B vitamins, warm compresses, facial massage, facial exercise, and avoiding wind/cold and sun exposure . Now I am beginning to do regular aerobic exercise and I feel as if my recovery and my symptoms in this episode are much better than in my first episode 5 years ago.

JBK Posted 17/06/2008

Hi, a good friend of mine is getting married July 5th and she suffers from Bells Palsy. About a month ago she woke up and had no movement on the left side of her face. Although there has been some improvement, I was wondering what else she could do to help in the upcoming weeks? Anymore suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Melissa P Posted 20/06/2008

I suffered from a pretty bad case of BP about 5 years ago when I was pregnant with my twin boys. I am still not fully recovered and have residuals... Anyone have any miracle cures? I'm all ears.

BAL Posted 23/06/2008

I am currently recovering from BP; it will be 6 weeks this coming Wednesday and I am at about 90% recovered. I took all supplements in this article, as well as had acupunture several times a week. The Chinese doctor doing acupuncture had me change my diet to fruits, veggies, whole grains; meditation, positive thinking, exercise. Also read The Cure by Timothy Brantley which I highly recommend. This experience has changed my life for the better since I'm getting healthier by the day and recovering so quickly -- and yes, I had full blown (not partial) BP. 1st improvement was noticed in 1 1/2-2 wks and has gotten better every week since. I work more than full time & am always busy but have reset my priorities with health now being #1. Hope this helps!

JO Posted 02/07/2008

I HAD BP 12 YEARS AGO, AND RECOVERED WELL, IT CAME BACK 19 WEEKS AGO, I'VE HAD 4 COURSES OF STEROIDS AND I'M ON MY 2ND COURSE OF ANTI VIRAL DRUGS ALONG WITH B6 STRONG. I HAVE SHINGLES AS WELL AT THE MOMENT 2ND TIME SINCE APRIL - I'M NOT A PRETTY SIGHT! I HAD FACIAL TONE LAST WEEK FOR THE 1ST TIME, WHICH HELPED LOTS BUT DROOPING CAME BACK AFTER 8 HRS, IT DID HELP THE FEELING IN MY UPPER FACE, I'M WILLING TO TRY ANYTHING!

CTB Posted 09/07/2008

In my 6th month of BP and only recently learned about the B12 injections. Does anyone have experience with the injections helping this far into the process?

RB Posted 11/07/2008

I'm into my 7th month of BP and have seen no progress since the onset. I'm beginning to lose hope.

hadi Posted 17/07/2008

hello , i'm hadi and i have bell's and it 1 week before my university enterance exam and now it's 6 month that i am not cured ! i did all of them , and i'm using hot pack for it , and i used all of vitamins and i do the special examinations ( also fisiotropy , and electric shocks ! ) but still my eye have the most problem ! i'm really anxious of it ! i don't know what can i do more ! plz help me

ali Posted 25/07/2008

first of all i want to say hi to everyone i had bells palsy about 1 year now but i didn't fully recover but i have recoved 90 percent only attending chinese acupuncture. is there a chance i might go back to normal if i use the b12 cuz i didn't use it before or is it probably too late i can close my eye fully but i can't hold air inside the mouth please guide me to the right direction

Si Posted 26/07/2008

I've had Bells Palsy twice now, the first time when I was 8 and the second time when I was 12. The first time I had it for 6 mounths, but the second time I only had it for 3 weeks. How strange?

paul breese Posted 01/08/2008

just got bp never heard of it before. i'm on anti viral and steroids but now i have read about b12 i will give it a go best of luck to everyone

isma Posted 06/08/2008

I have had the problem for 2 years. Any help please?

YT Posted 07/08/2008

I've had Bells Palsy for at least 4 years now. I've recovered 60% or so. I've done many treatments such as acupuncture. When I had bells palsy for the first time, no one realized until a few months later. I haven't recovered fully. I need advice. please help!

Laura Posted 08/08/2008

Hi Everyone, I have had BP twice now. The first time I was about 19 and fully recovered with steroid and anti-viral treatment. This time I am 29 years old, 37 weeks pregnant and in the very early stages. I am trying to stay positive but it is hard because treatment is not possible untill the baby is born. Thanks to everyone for sharing - it really does help to hear that I am not alone!

lugonwa Posted 14/08/2008

i have had the bp for the last 32 yrs any help and advise

YT Posted 18/08/2008

Please help! Suffering here, especially at school as many people tease :(

Sabzy Posted 19/08/2008

My husband had BP 3 weeks ago and now has recovered 80%. This is all due to eating Pigeon Meat - no joke this seriously works. We were advised of this by many people from the South Asia region where BP is common. Pigeon meat is rich and hot and this really does help - I cannot emphasize this enough. Facial Massage with olive oil also helped and hot towels.

Jenny  Posted 22/08/2008

Hi everyone, this is my 2nd time around, although this one they say is Ramsay Hunt; only difference I have noticed between this and BP is the pain in my ear. I got on to this straight away as initially I thought I was having a stroke. Hospital prescribed Prednisolone and asked my GP for Zovirax just in case. The biggest relief I found was when I started using Vitamin B12 - I doubled the usual dose, and after this I added vitamin Zinc + B6 Magnesium. I have used hot wheat packs to ease the pain and gently massaged my face (not to often with the massaging). I'm almost back to normal and it's now just over two weeks - I will take another 2 days off from work and then I think I'm ready to resume with a 3/4 smile possible and double winks - I'm a receptionist so speech and looks are important. Good luck all. Jenny

Charles Posted 24/08/2008

This is my 2nd bout with this annoying disease. The 1st time was in 1997, wasn't all that bad then. I think this time is a little worse. Will try the b12 and hope and pray that it works. nice to know that I'm not alone. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

allen Posted 25/08/2008

Please help me - I'm suffering from bells palsy for less than a week now. May I know what the home remedies for bells palsy are or is there any food to avoid in order be healed easier?

alisa Posted 25/08/2008

My 9 year old daughter has bp this is her 7th week and it seems to be getting worse. The doctors did not give any meds and will not!! I don't know what else to do. Can I give her all these vitimans? Any one have any ideas?????

jason Posted 30/08/2008

Try to raise the temp. in your bedroom.Make sure that cold air is not blowing on you when you sleep.Cold air can be a cause for this condition, and may slow recovery.I am trying to recover now, and I only hope this helps someone.Good luck to everyone.

Julie Posted 31/08/2008

It broke my heart to see the 9-year old girl's suffering. I'm not sure if my experience helps. I've had BP for 3 weeks now. During the first 2 weeks I took Anti-viro and some other vitamins with daily acupuncture treatment. However the acupuncture doctor was not experienced and after 8 intensive treatment nothing happened. Starting from week three I found another acupuncture doctor with much more experience who taught me to take Vitamin B12. He also did deep facial massage for about 30 minute with each visit. Now by the end of the 3rd week (treatment every other day) I can already see muscle movement on my right face. My right face looks relaxed and my mouth looks much better than just a week ago. I am looking and feeling better each day - I can close my right eye 90% and can finally manage a smile without feeling too sad. My experience is: find the right doctor who combines deep facial massage with acupuncture; meanwhile take Vitamin B12 daily (take 2-3 times usual dosage).

Joan Posted 31/08/2008

I believe after having bp twice that it is caused by a draught playing on the side of the face.Iwent out with damp hair sat in a car with the window slightly open and awoke next morning with bp,a friend of mine went on to get bp and said the same.now i have mucus continually sitting in my throat and causing a cough because of damage to nerves can anyone help with this please.?My bp was 10 years apart but damage was more severe second time around[painful]

J. Y. Posted 08/09/2008

Hi all, do not give up. Here's a super good site you may want to check out: http://www.bellspalsy.ws/exercise.htm Everything you need to know is stated there. I'm doing my facial exercise daily, as well as, taking V B12 and acupuncture 2-3 times a week. Looking good every day (not even a month yet). Cheer up and good luck!

LAT Posted 14/09/2008

How do you get the B12 injection? do you just go to the GP and ask for it?

matt Posted 25/09/2008

You guys think you got it bad I've had it my whole life and it just gets worse every year and it will never go away

Dee Posted 26/09/2008

BP I had it 3 times, 15 years apart, the last one in July/09. When I first had it I tried steroids but did not work and after 6 long months with the condition I become aware of ultra violet light as well as vitamin B12 (injections), I set in front of the U.V.light lamp for 5 minutes the first day, 6 minutes the 2nd up to 10minuts on the 10th day, I could feel the muscle on the effected side slowly regaining its movements and soon I was cured. the 2nd time and the one I had last July I was not able to find the U.V.light lamp so prednisone was needed for 1 week. After I went to a naturapath who gave me BP drops which he made it and vitamin B12 to put under the tongue and most of all stay away from cold draughts on your face. I am now 95% recovered.Do not give up!

nairi Posted 30/09/2008

plz i realy need to know if i have this BP the left side of my face is nor totally frozen but kinda pressed and numb my ear hole became smaller and my eybrow's shape is being changed i have jaw pain sometimes and i always have headahk i can nor look up and when i try to look up my left eye gets tired and after 2 minutes it drops plzzzz give me an ideaa what is this i am getting crazy

AL Posted 01/10/2008

I had BP like 6 years ago and recovered from it slowly. I got all movement back in like 6 months, but Its been six years and I was left with the affects that you have after BP, like when you smile my eye closes more on the affected side..does anyone have this annoying problem as well? Or is there anyone out there that knows of any cure of doctor or medicine..Im desperate!!! Please Help!!!!

Rob Posted 01/10/2008

I'm only about 1 week into BP for the 1st time. BUMMED!!!!! The eye is the worst part. Just wish I could close it. I'm trying the B complex vitamins but I wonder why my Doc never put me on Anti Viral meds. I may have to check on that when I see him this week.

A.Maheshwaran Posted 04/10/2008

My age is 27, I had a bell's palsy problem. Can i have a sex with my wife?Ican i take take any sex tablets? if i want? please send me answer

Margarita Posted 09/10/2008

I have bp, today is my 3 week, and I have been reading all this comments, and I'm glad to did it, because I was very afraid, I never heard about it before. I just want to say I'm agree with the cause could be draught playing on the side of the face, I feel the first symptom after got out a store during 2 hrs there, I suppose my eyes already tired, and the parking lot had a very good breeze, when I got home I tried to wash my face, and my eye didn't respond to close. Oh! all I can say this is a very disappointing condition. Good look to every body.

Neo Posted 24/10/2008

I had bell palsy for almost 3 months...but it seems like din't recover much...what can i do?

Andrea Posted 27/10/2008

Hello I am 30 weeks pregnant, I started to get bells palsy last Thursday when I was at work. I noticed my bottom lip was not functioning like it should...thought I was turning in to Jackie Stallone! Docs think it was shingles which brought it on. I've had no pain or rash. I'm on antiviral tablets and zovirax for my eye which won't shut. I'm going to try acupuncture too. I'm taking pregnecare everyday which has b12 in so hopefully I will fight this! good luck everyone!

Allen Posted 28/10/2008

Hello, I too have BP or i think i do. pain in my jaw and neck area right below my ear on the left side. I have to struggle to close my left eye and when I smile my left side wont hardly even budge! I also noticed my hearing is more sensitive in my left ear also. I can put up with the mouth and eye movements but the pain in the jaw area is almost like having a 24/7 headache. Havent been to a doc or hospital but plan on taking b12 and getting a face massage!!

Derryck Posted 28/10/2008

I was diagnosed with BP on the 26 October, second time around, 25 years since the first. I am on Prednisone and an anti viral as well undergoing Hyperbaric treatment (2hrs per day) which according to the DR will speed up the recovery period by at least 20%. Any comments on this treat and can you take B12 at the same time. Your comments would be appreciated.

robert 28/10/2008 Posted 28/10/2008

hello ,i too have bp as i have just come from my gp today and have all the syptoms which comes with it. my gp says it is a trapped nerve from behind the ear. it started with pain behind the ear, headaches drooping on the mouth and numbness all on the left side.he prescribed prednisone with eye cream as the eye needs protecting the most because of its dryness and i do not believe it was off a draught.

Richard - California Posted 01/11/2008

I am 42 years old, I was just told this week from the doctors that I have BP. My left side of my face, I do not smile right anymore, my eye does not shut all the way, I am on Prednisone & Acyclovir. I am afraid I am at that age where I might not be curred, I will look into B12 and Acupuncture but it's hard when you are just layed off and now lacking insurance...any help ot suggestions would very much be appreciated. GOD BLESS YOU all for your comments and ideas and strenghts.

dee Posted 03/11/2008

Hi. My grandpa was just told he has BP three days ago. He was told it was caught every early on. So he has a good chance of recovery. I bought him some B12 and Gingko. Is there anything else anyone would recommend? Anything would be greatly appreciated.

Christine Posted 05/11/2008

Hi everyone my 4yr old daughter has BP it has just been confirmed 4/11 it only started on 3/11 she was sent straight to the neurologist at Yorkhill kids' hosp on 4/11 were they have put her on Steriods & Virecolin to attack virus back, Our doctor said he has never seen it in a child so young which is quite scary, i was reading over everyone's comments and will pop to my local health shop to stock up on VB12 to see if this will speed up the recovery Thank You

lynda Posted 07/11/2008

Hi, i have had BP for 19 months now.I just wanted to know if anyone knows if it is normal to be still having pain in my ear. I also have lots of days where my face feels so stiff and tight that its to much effort to even talk or eat.My face also aches really bad.I am also having problems with my two front teeth it seems that i am grinding them during my sleep which is now wearing my teeth away.I was wondering if anyone else has this problem or is it just me.

shirley Posted 14/11/2008

I was diagnosed with Bell's Palsy on 10-13-08 and have yet to see improvement other than the pain has subsided. It was very bad for a time. I took the usual medications prescribed, but not so sure I would at this point as there is no indication these help as many have recovered without them and there are serious side effects to consider. In fact I have a problem now that may be a result of the medication says the orthopedic doctor I am seeing. From this point, at lease for a good while, I may continue with the Complex B, the self massage and R @ R. It is certainly not pleasant but there are so many things to have that could be much worse.

adi Posted 17/11/2008

hello all i have had bp for over a year and about 85% recovered. I tried every technique described and a few i came up with myself. although this may seem aggressive, i highly recommend the use of medical marijuana. yes, out of all the techniques i feel that marijuana has helped tremendously with my condition. This in combination with acupuncture and a good diet are key. Don't do electrostimulation to the facial nerve as it is much to blunt and harsh and is in my opinion not helpful at all. The key is to relax and let the body do its healing so kick back for a couple weeks, eat healthy, exercise your face and body, and roll up god's gift. dont panic its organic people

Ninja Posted 20/11/2008

Yeah, i got BP on 11/18. Im taking the predisone and 2000 mcg B12 tablets, i'll let everyone know how it goes. Hopefully it goes away soon.

stacey Posted 25/11/2008

hi I am 20years old, I'v had bells palsy since I was around 15, I was told by my GP that it may or may not fully recover she never really told me much about it and its really starting to get to me as I get older, I hate having pictures taken because I look awful and I look like I have a lazy eye and a funny half smile, its starting to really upset me, I'm sick of the comment like 'whats up with your eye' or 'wHats up with ur face' is ther anyway of curing this?? I will try anything!! I have my wedding coming up next year and I am not looking forward to getting pictures taken at all!!! please help!!

geoffplahn@hotmail.com Posted 26/11/2008

Hi, I'm forty this year and developed bells palsy in feb 2006. i had a strange but very uncomfortable headache above my left side of my temple weeks beforehand and pain behind me left ear days before. then i went to laos and got heavy food poisoning, which left me on my back with the aircon on heavy on my neck and back,.. i dont know if this added to to the severity or not,.. but a day after my return to bangkok my face dropped,. i suffered nose bleeds everyday, headaches, watering eye and nose etc and hearing problems, sweating and loss of energy. i looked very strange and it affected me pretty badly emotionally as i was going thru a separation at the time too! arggh. i did try steroids, and Vit B but after 12 months not much change except the nosebleeds and hearing got better. end of year 2 my eye shuts and i can move my face, but my mouth stays flat as does my eyebrow. i still have watering when eating or in windy or cold weather. I have tried one or two acupunctures, but will try some more as i believe it may work over time. Stress doesn't help, but i do believe it feels worse than it looks,. and i've learned to accept myself with it. on bad days it does bother me, but mainly it's ok, just a weird one. got plantar facsiitis now as well,.. another odd ailment.

Cat  Posted 26/11/2008

I had BP for 3 weeks now and I took Prednisone and Valtrex for a week the Doc told me that the both of them work well for BP. I read about B12 and i am taking it everyday! I am about 90% recovered i still have a pain in the back of my head and I cant fully smile. I can now shut my eye, If you do Facial excerise you will speed up recovery but most importent is to rest and do it little by little. This website help me www.bellspalsy.ws/ alot. I know it can be scary, leave it to GOD. Have a Bless day and Happy Thanksgiving!!

Benjo Posted 02/12/2008

Hey I just got BP for the second time in 6months on the other side of my face! First time took around 4 months to get to 100% This time doesn't seem as bad, fairly worried though about residual side affects, im 24. When i first got it i did nothing but just wait, This time through im getting Physio a few times a week and am on prednisone, however im gaining some weight which sucks! The pain is the worst thing! However its a good excuse for abit of R & R :D May God be with you all during this time.

Nadia Posted 03/12/2008

Hi i have had BP now for two weeks. Mine started with a severe headached for two days. I've had the steroids and viral tablets which i'm told aren't really that helpful. After completing my course of steroids i got really bad pain in my face for which i am taking Carbamazepine which i have to say has helped me a great deal. Though i still get headaches and pain around my ear. Someone on here has previously mentioned pigeon which i have been told by so many people to have. I can't say its worked straightaway but i'm willing to try anything. So i have been having Quail and Pigeon soup everyday for the last two weeks! I have to say there must be something good about Quails as my mum who had a stroke had been eating quails and that helped her a great dealwith her recovery. I am very surprised as to how many people have posted on here that have said they've had it for years. That does concern me quite a bit so i'm going to take a few tips and try the vitamins and healthy diet. Good luck to everyone and God Bless.

Mss E Posted 09/12/2008

I am amazed at how many people have experienced BP. I had my first episode when I was 11 or 12 yrs old, and I just knew I was the only one in the world experiencing this face and life chaning condition. My first episode lasted pretty much clear through highschool never really got my full smile back. My second episode was when I was 28 years old it only lasted for three or four weeks. I am now currently experiencing a 3rd episode of BP, hit me on 11/01/2008, stressing really bad at that time when it struck. I was put on anti-virals and prednisone. I have very little movement in my nose and check area, little eyebrow movement, my toungue is no longer numb, but my eye keeps tearing and it's somewhat hard to pronunciate certain words; it's been about a month since this episode struck. I've been also taking garlic softgels, V-E, VB-complex along with meds. It's painful having had experience this so many times but I believe BP is my nemisis. I'm pretty numb mentally now from the BP episodes but I'm determined to find a natural cure through vitamins. Plan on trying the Vitamin B family especially 12, niacin, and V-C, Zinc, I've learned that these vitamins help regenerate nerve damage. I'm gonna try some Cayenne or (Capisicum) this is suposed to help regenerate blood flow. I don't know what will work but I don't want to take another 3 weeks or 3 years of my life trying to get better. I know eventually with time my face will improve it always have except for my smile, this go around I'm hoping and praying for a complete recovery along with my smile. HAVE FAITH PEOPLE, BP IS A MYSTERY; VISUALLY AND MENTALLY IT WEARS YOU DOWN, be strong through your episode, I know it's hard but in time you will get better. I know, I've experienced it three times in my lifetime and I'm only 38 years old.

keren Posted 17/12/2008

Help i got told ive got bells palsy today ive never heard of it before i was very shocked and scared. Its so horrible i cant talk!! really hope it goes with the Aciclovir and prednisolone the doctor gave me but going to try b12 aswel really feel for the people who have had it most of their life!!

Lisa Posted 23/12/2008

Hi I had BP when I was 21, it started with a coldsore and my whole bottom lip doubled in size. It seemed to get 90% better 6 weeks later, the next day I woke to find the other side of my face had BP and my GP had never known this to happen! Now 15 years later my right side of my face which was the first side that went is 100% better but my left side is only 80% and I miss my full smile :0(

Amy Posted 27/12/2008

I had BP right after I had my son,shortly after I ended up with it being bi-lateral where my whole face was parylized for 3 weeks. Im not fully recovered but it is back to just the left side of my face. Here recently I guess with the cold weather my left side is starting to get worse again.It has been almost 6 months.

RichardP Posted 30/12/2008

I came down with bells Palsy 2 weeks before Christmas 2008 read the article and by christmas day was at 85% recovered and I believe with prayer and Vitamin B12 8 times a day and no coffee contributed to my recovery. Thank you for B12 suggestion

Anne Posted 31/12/2008

I contracted BP May 2007 and was treated with steroids and told to rest. Two weeks later I lost my hearing and have been partially deaf since on the side of the paralysis. Is there any way that i can get my hearing back? I started acupuncture eight weeks ago and it is providing relief. Will be trying B12 and other treatments mentioned above.

Kirsten Posted 17/01/2009

I got bell's palsy in September of 07. After about 3 months I was 99 % fully restored. A week and 1/2 ago I got it again just on the left side of my face. I am on predisone but the doctors accidentally overdosed me, so my internal symptoms (facial pain, headaches, ear ringing) have been ten times worse then just with the bells. I have decided to stop taking the steroids and focus more on B12. I have been taking it everyday since getting BP. Does anybody know how much exactly to take depending on how bad your symptoms are?

Juergen Mascarenhas Posted 19/01/2009

Hi, I've had bells palsy for 13 years now and I've had surgery for it, and I've tried taking some B-12 and still nothing what other methods should I approach to cure my self of this ailment??

Maryam Posted 21/01/2009

I don't know if I have it or not... but since 6 months my smile and laughter has changed... both corners of my lips would droop when I try to smile or laugh... now my right side is cured but my left side is not !!! I'm afraid that I'll never eat properly... If anyone have had similar symptoms let me know.

Barbie Posted 23/01/2009

Hi everyone I am 8 weeks into "Bells Palsy" or Hells bells as I call it! took medication for 2 weeks but it is only last couple of weeks it seems to be improving. I do take B12 every day since onset and do facial exercises. I was very distressed at the start as I am so conscious of my appearance and found it difficult to go out, but feel more confident now.I think it needs time and will go when it is ready.Keep your spirits up and try to feel positive it does help.Good luck to all.

mike Posted 27/01/2009

Hi to all bp suffers i have had bp for 23 years. When i was first diagnosed my doctor told me that it would clear up within 4 to 6 weeks, after about 6 months you realize that its not hapening for you & you are desperate for any help that is available. I tried chinese acupuncture for about 9 months which did help but i was still not any better. Then i was refereed for plastic surgery, i had 3 operations in all which consisted of having a piece of muscle taken from my upper chest & a nerve taken from the back of my right leg and inplanted into my face,its helped a great deal but i will never be 100% i now have a numbness going down my leg to the bottom of my ankle. To all BP sufferers good luck and lets hope that there will a cure one day.

james sargent Posted 31/01/2009

hi i've just been browsing all the comments. i am up 2 my second week now and i've been taking the steroids which have made a bit of difference. And also going to have electro currents next week to help. good luck 2 every one

dr rajeev Posted 31/01/2009

i have not much improvement kindly suggest

ronniel Posted 02/02/2009

For those suffering Bells Palsy try to use a garlic supplement daily.In 1997 I suffer Bells Palsy for 3 weeks then in 2001 again I suffer for another 3 weeks then after that I took a garlic supplement and I never encountered it again. For me garlic is a powerful herbal medicine and it helped me a lot.

Sue Giberson Posted 05/02/2009

I have had BP 5 times in the last five years - about a year apart except this time and it has only been 7 months. Each time it started with the aching behind the ear and felt like the ear lobe ached. It took me 1-2 weeks each time to get over it. My doctor has always started me on the prednisolone. I am going to the doctor today and will ask him if the B12 will help in the long run. I hate worrying about this and almost knowing that I am going to get it every year. I do sleep with a bedroom window open a couple of inches and can sometimes feel the cool air - I plan to close the window starting tonight to see if that helps. I also plan to wear hats and scarfs when I am out in the cool weather. Anyone have any suggestions on what causes this so often?

KC  Posted 16/02/2009

Surprising how many people have gone through this. I'm a 43-yr old female, developed BP after a virus caused an ear infection and went to the cranial(facial) nerve. The dormant viruses may flare-up in people due to stress or cold, etc. B12 sounds promising. I wonder what dosage of B12 tablets is beneficial, but still safe, e.g. not excess/potentially harmful? I'm 3 months into this and have seen 60 per cent improvement with gentle facial exercises and massaging, and rest. Recovery is incremental, someone told me it amounts to 1 mm per day. Good luck to everyone. It's somewhat of a nightmare, but on the otherhand, I guess it could be worse.

 Posted 16/02/2009

I am 36 and have had BP 2.5 months and taking very large doses (100,000 mcg) of B12 Methylcobalamin a day that many say will help but I have seen little improvements. Some say that B12 helps only if you have a B!" deficiency, and it is usually only vegetarians and alcoholics, and I am none of those. Unfortunately, I live in Sweden and I would like to shorten my recovery of BP, so I'm looking how I can get advice and help elsewhere. Take care everybody!

Joker Posted 16/02/2009

"The dose of vitamin B12 is 500 mcg three times a week by injection. It is also possible to get vitamin B12 in 5 mg lozenges that can be taken up to eight times a day. " I take 10 times * 5mg in 2 months now without effect, perhaps I should look at some other alternatives or a combination therapy of alternatives.

Lizzy Posted 21/02/2009

I am 19 years old and I was diagnosed with BP 2 days ago. I've heard of it but didnt know anything about it. It really scarred me but reading your comments has helped I dont feel so alone in this. I am doing alot of reasearch and if I find anything new I will post it. And for those who have been suffering from this for a long time know that things can get better and stay strong. Good luck to you all and Thank You!!!!!!! :)

Mike  Posted 22/02/2009

My Son is 14 Years Old, healthy & energetic. He has recently been diagnosed with Bells Palsy (Partial) but the DR is not keen on treatments with steroids just yet. He said "see how the body responds first". Will Vitamen B12 Lozengers help? Anybody in similar circumstances, can you offer advice or support?

Debby Posted 02/03/2009

My husband was diagnosed with BP 2 weeks ago. It came on over 48hrs and he could not smile, raise his eyebrow or blink. I'm a nurse and recognised the symptoms straight away so got him to the GP straight away. GP put him on pred and acylovir and he is under the ENT team. I suggested Vit B12 so he started multi vits last week and he has almost fully recovered. No longer needed the eye ointment at night because he can keep his eye closed all night now. We are so relieved.

liz Posted 03/03/2009

Hi all I've had BP for 12 years. I had surgery in april but it left me with a numb spot on my lip. I had 18 staples in my head. I now have 3 dents in my head now and not a great improvement any other ideas will be very welcome !!!!!!!

Glen Posted 03/03/2009

Wow! Sure didn't realize how many people suffer with this. On 01-07-09 I was struck suddenly by BP & put on prednisone & acyclovir the next day. I actually went through 2 cycles of prednisone. Horrible pain on affected side & ended up with severe ear infection so had to go on antibiotics. Sensitivity to loud sounds on affected side is brain piercing & so very painful. BP pain around ear lasted for 7 weeks; it'll be 2 months this week and no change whatsoever. I've tried acupuncture, herbs from Pakistan (scary) & other homeopathic nerve cures & nothing. I'm going to get the sublingual vitamin B-12 & try that as well. Neurologist told me that as nerve grows back all is good until it tries to branch out & doesn’t know which exit to take; so you could end up trying to blink your eye but your lip will curl up or try to smile & your eyebrow goes up instead, etc. This is indeed a cruel affliction; I'm in sales and if this doesn't resolve itself, it could be the end of a 29 year career. I wish all of you the very best in your ongoing battle with BP & if anyone thinks they’ve found the answer, please post it here for all to benefit from.

Joker Posted 05/03/2009

I am from Sweden and I have had BP since November 30 2008 and although I met with 4 different doctors, I was unable to attain prednisone and acyclovir... tragic Swedish health care. Anyway, I have managed on its own way to order it from abroad, and only after 2 days the BP began to drop. I have now been well for nearly two months. Prednisone and acyclovirit is proven that it helps in many cases. Good luck to all! / J

donna callaghan  Posted 06/03/2009

i have had bp for 3 and a half years i did not go away i get pain in my jaw ear pain a twitch in my face and a wonkey smile i was offerered botox but my face is to weak there is nothing i can do i am 28 years old and i have had it twice once when i was 14

bean Posted 06/03/2009

hi all, i'm a 33 y/o female and am in my 3rd wk of BP, tried the steroids and heat treatment, also the B vitamin complex everyday and so far i've noticed the corner of my mouth lifting a tiny bit, still no eyebrow lift or eye closure but its a start! still have major pain behind my ear and facial tenderness, as if my face is bruised on the affected side, has anyone else experienced this? i also get a lot of twitching under my eye and it constantly streams tears also. my children are a great help to me, i just think that this whole experience could have been a lot worse and i've learnt not to take my health for granted, its should be a priority!

emmy Posted 22/03/2009

I have had bp for slightly over two years now. Recently out of frastruation, I took somebody's amoxcillin and felt a lot better and I must say I was about 60% recovered before the amoxcillin but now I feel about 95% better.

Dev Posted 23/03/2009

I developed BP 3 years ago. Before the BP I had a severe tonsil pain and I got treatment for that. Two days later I felt a shock in my face and I went to the doctor with in hours they suggested rest and give some vitamins and the doctor said it will recover in time automatically. But I see no progress and planning to go to physio... Is it fully recoverable? thanks

emmy Posted 24/03/2009

Does anyone also feel a burning sensation in the foot while with bells palsy? I do and its worse than the palsy itself... Anyone?

Karen Posted 30/03/2009

I have had Bell's Palsy for about 8 months, trying natural antibiotics, antibiotics, prednazone ect.. at month three I went to the dentist and had a root canal.. within hours my face straightened and I improved immensely. HAVE YOUR TEETH CHECKED!!! I now have a crocked smile..and it was my best feature.. :( I had another tooth pulled recently and the dentist mentioned that it may help as our facial nerves run near the roots of our teeth both top and bottom and another runs nearer the eye.. The three nerves come together near your ear..soo anything that causes swelling to any of these nerves can cause the palsy. I'm single and have always been told I'm gorgeous.. but after this not so much.. it's quite painful. I've continued my career in selling and friends seem to respect me for not openly allowing this to change me, but loosing a smile is pretty huge. I cannot stress enough.. have your teeth checked!

Aries Posted 03/04/2009

I got BP in Mar. 08. It was scary. Stress was a big factor, had a tooth pulled a week prior to onset, the day before I was outside in the wind for a couple of hours. I was about 2 months into my pregnancy and I could not (would not) take any drugs. I had to let nature heal. I did and still do take B-12 (methylcobalamin) and L-Lysine. After about 3 months I was able to almost shut my eye and had some cheek movement. I have read a lot on acupuncture and seeing a chirpractor in the past couple days. I am going to give that a try. It sounds promising. This is hard to deal with still. Sure does change your attitude. I first thought "Why me". Then I realized "Why not me". It could be alot worst. I might not be able to smile real pretty, but at least I can smile. I feel like I recieved this for a reason and will have to take from this trial what I can. I do want to get better though. I just pray I will heal.

James Tinu Posted 04/04/2009

My wife had a BP, I was out and my next door neighbours did some thing which sound weired but it works....Only the Grey (Called as Forest Pigeon) there blood is very very effective. Just for 15 minutes leave it on the side face and wash it then drink the soup of pigeon .... its no harm guaranteed but 100% cure... only works with in same day of BP..... it wont effect if you had bp over 2 days long....

emmy Posted 05/04/2009

Hi James, take BP seriously and the remedy you talk of is simply sad. Pray u never get BP.

Ray Andrews  Posted 07/04/2009

Hi to all, I had Bells Palsy in Aug 08. My face did not drop but the whole of the left side of my face had no movement. I had the steroids treatment from the doctors ,that thay told me would help , not to sure if it did or not... I read many people's stories about Bells Palsy and B12 Kept poping up. So, I had nothing to loose and got myself some B12 in tablet form. I took 3 or 4 at a time, 3 times a day and I do believe it helped speed up my recovery so do try it. It's been 7 months since my face nearly came back to normal. I still can't whistle but it is getting better every month. I used a whistle test as a guide line to how far my face come back to normal. DO TRY B12

M. Emo Posted 09/04/2009

After doing some more research, I found that there are numerous types of B12 vitamin. The one we need is of type 'Methycolbalamin' and it's recommended to get injections not oral supplements. You'll have to talk to you doctor and ensure they have this kind of B12. Also heard good things about the garlic supplement. I'm trying acupuncture. I have my 1st appointment this afternoon. Go to Google and search on '1995 Bells Palsy B12 Study' and you'll see what I'm referring to. Good luck!

jessica Posted 20/04/2009

I had bells palsy four years ago and I still have side affects like when I laugh or smile...I just had my first son and the doctors put me on steriods and I have to massage my face alot.It took a while to recover but truth is no one ever recovers 100 per cent and what's really crazy is my brother and my sister had it. My sister had it first then my brother then me.

Aisha Posted 22/04/2009

Hi guys, I had bells palsy when I was 16, was put on steriods, and recovered quite well. My brother had it a few years later, but the doctor told him the best cure was to let it heal alone. I'm now 24 and feel it coming back again, I can still move the right side of my face, but its slowly numbing. Im going to the chemist looking for B12.

Stephanie Posted 24/04/2009

Hi, I am one week into BP. I have not yet been to the Doctor .I bought B12 tablets in 100mcg. How many should I take and how often? Can anyone tell me what the cause of this is? At what point should I go to the Doctor?

KELLY Posted 24/04/2009

HEY EVERYONE..IM 34 AND I WAS JUST TOLD TWO DAYS AGO 4/21/09 THAT I HAVE BP. I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF IT...NATURALLY I WAS HORRIFIED... BUT HAVE READ ALL YOUR STORIES AND WILL FOLLOW EVERYONES ADVICE... I HOPE TO RECOVER 100%..AND HOPE THE SAME FOR EVERYONE ELSE WITH IT...KEEP YOUR HEAD UP..I WILL KEEP YOU POSTED...GOODLUCK TO EVERYONE.

deem Posted 24/04/2009

Hello. My husband had bell's palsy for 2.5 months now, the condition has improved very much but he is stil not back to normal. B12 does help but you need to either put it under your tongue or get injections, if you take it orally, it will not work! I am considering the B12 patch and will update you on developments. Some sources also said that Echanicea, Zinc, Vitamin C, Licorice, Flaxseed oil. Vitamin B complex , acupuncture, facial exercises and massages, icing on the face also help the pain and inflammation. I have pretty much tried everything on him and now he is almost normal. Not sure what the reason for his recovery is.

Leighann Posted 26/04/2009

I have had bp for 2 weeks now. No pain when it started but now much of my face and ear is painful. I'm 31 years old and getting married soon..... I love to smile and this has been devastating to me. I was given a round of prednisone... At urgent care and was given no further direction. I will try the B12....but any other ideas would be helpful. Thanks

Sparky Scotland Posted 29/04/2009

I have had BP since birth and have been told that I have to endure it by my doctors. We believe it may have been down to them using foreseps on my head to assist in the birth which may have resulted in nerve damage. I spent a year and a half with the Parachute Regiment and was Medically Discharged because I could not fully close my right eye. I'm interested to know if anyone else has experienced this from birth or if everyone has only had it temporarily. Cheers

Christy Posted 29/04/2009

Hi, I'm 25 and I didn't know there was such a disease before I got it. I only found out because my eyes were really tired and went to an optometrist. She said one eye wasn't closing properly and referred me to a GP and just went to an ENT yesterday. The GP recommended acyclovir but am not sure as it doesn't guarantee 100 per cent recovery:S I did some google search, it says: 1) use ointment at night(lacri lube) 2) acupunture 3) eat garlic & olive oil (mash garlic with olive oil) 4) use multi-vitamins - with a B-complex vitamin 5) avoid milk 6) deep massage to face 7) avoid exposure to wind 8) exercise facial muscle daily (smile, lift eyebrow, try whistling, close eyes) 9) pull smile (hold 10 seconds) - repeat 10) put heating pad on low on affected area (hold 3 mins, rest 3 mins) 11) drink lots of water 12) sleep & rest adequately 13) use fingers to close-open eyelid and apply eye drops 14) avoid stress, take care of immune system 15) Avoid coffee and chocolates (RIGHT SIDE FACE) Take supplements or food with potassium -eg lentils, banana, wheat germ, leafy green, kelp -herbs: peppermint, sage, parsley (LEFT SIDE FACE) take sodium supplements -eg celery, carrots, beets, lemons -herbs: kelp, gotu kola, liquorice, rosehip That's all I could gather right now, but my eye feels constantly tired. GET WELL SOON EVERYBODY! Stay positive and I hope we will all have a beautiful smile again :D

emmalouise Posted 29/04/2009

Hi all. I have just been diagnoised. I woke up this morning and thought I had had a stroke so I went straight to the hopital. I am pregnant (30 weeks) and have been having pain in and around my ear for days. I visisted my doctors twice and one doctor said ear infection the other doctor said there was nothing wrong with me. But I knew there was some thing not right. The hospital was my saviour in a way I was just grateful the doctor found out what was wrong with me rather than being palmed off by my own doctors with false and wrong diagonosis. Now I have to take 10 tablets on a morning. Due to being pregnant I can only take a low dose but I hope with my fingers crossed that I will be ok.

E Posted 08/05/2009

Hi, I'm not sure if I have BP. I'm 22 I've had these symptoms ever since birth, 1- the right side of my face is slightly lower than the left 2-my eyebrow doesn't move at all 3-my eye closes with a tiny bit open in the corner 4-I have what I call a half smile 5-very bad eyesight in my right eye 6-dipped hearing in my right ear. I have had every treatment imaginable nothing has changed and my doctor told me to accept it as permanent. Its very depressing!

Christie Posted 11/05/2009

Hi. I was just diagnosed two days ago with this Bell's Palsy on the left side. I went to Emergency. Hoping for the best. Thanks to all for the many suggestions. I also have a cold sore on my mouth so I guess mine is viral. Am taking prednisone and the B12 methylcobalamine under the tongue on my own. Will see doctor tomorrow. Wondering how I got it, I also had forceps birth and wonder if nerves were slightly damaged then. I had a filling end of March and had to go back, it is still giving me problems. Also mega stress with chronic neck pain from permanent whiplash-related injuries, for past the five years. I like the positive attitudes I read here. Don't give up! And thanks again for all the tips.

Christie Posted 13/05/2009

Hi everyone again, I hope you are all hanging in there with this. I have started chewing gum for facial exercise. I bite my lip a lot on my left side where I have it, but I try to chew as much as possible on the left. As for B12 injections, when I wanted these for chronic pain, I found they would have to be compounded to get methylcobalamine, the better B12 form for absorption as I understand it. It could have been done, but it would have been somewhat expensive, and my doctor was no help. He wrote it wasn't available in this country (US). He was so wrong. But I am taking the tablets under the tongue, a lot of them. At least one 5000 mcg a day, every time I take a Prednisone. I was told to make my eye shut at night with "surgical tape." I am using soft post-surgery paper tape. I'm thinking sunglasses for driving might relief discomfort. Sorry to write so much again so soon. I'm wondering if taking B12 for the rest of my life might help ward off future attacks, along with the other B's in proper proportions. Good luck all.

Christy Posted 16/05/2009

http://www.bellspalsy.ws/exercise.htm Do not chew gum - it exercises the wrong muscles, and may promote synkinesis.

Loopy Posted 23/05/2009

Hi I hope someone can help/advise me - I was diagnosed with mild BP - had it for 10 weeks now though and it has still not gone - I read that mild forms should go quickly, but mine isn't - is this it? am I stuck with it for good? what can I do? please please - any advise suggested - I thought mild cases went quicker?

Nb Posted 24/05/2009

Thank you all. I just had a diagnosis days ago and taking prednisone and acyclovir. I’ve learned that these vitamins (B12) will help to regenerate nerve damage. I'm going to try some. Keep your spirits up Good luck all

mike Posted 26/05/2009

Hi to all. A brother had BP, and another brother is a chiropractor. I self diagnosed that I had contracted Bells Palsy on the 5th of this month. My chiropractor brother advised against the Western treatment of anti-viral in combination with steroid, and pointed me to this article. Although my symptoms were pronounced, we followed the recommendations of this article to the letter, including L-Carnosine, L-Carnitine, L-Lysine, etc. So, together with these I'm taking B Complex, B-12 *lozenges* (1000 mcg), adrenal supplement, Vitamin C (1,000 mg), Echinacea (800 mg 4x/day), Uva Ursi, Skullcap (before bed), and Valerian. Refresh Tears for dry eyes daytime, and Refresh PM for dry eyes night-time. I've also been eating aspirin, hoping to combat swelling and dull the pain. Anyway, in 2 days I noticed recovery. I'm 20 days into this now. Ten days ago I'd say I was about 70% recovered. My right eye wouldn't even focus until then. Today I'm close to 90%, maybe even better, but stamina on that side of the face suffers a little, even as there is definite improvement every morning. The right side of my face is almost responding normally now. Some delay in and weakness in blinking and so forth. I could add a few things to the article. My case started with a very slight ear ache, then the headache as described in the article. There was an initial numbness which is very much like Novocaine. It's a pretty sure thing to diagnose, even for us amateurs. Certain points on my face are quite painful still, but I'm fortunate to recover so much so fast I think. Probably immediate diagnosis and treatment are important. I'm writing largely for the sake of others. As this article stressed B-12, and as the form I have been taking is small lozenges, I've been taking considerably more B-12 than the article recommends. For the record, I went quite a while taking a 1,000 mcg lozenge in both the morning and evening. The brand I've been using is "No Shot" by Superior Source; and the recommended dosage *as a supplement* is 1,000 mcg/day, so I went ahead and doubled that the first two weeks. Best regards to all. Stay positive. Take care.

Ruth Posted 02/06/2009

I had bells palsy 13 years ago when I was 34 weeks pregnant. It started with a terrible pain in my left temple after I had slept in a draught. I then had terrible jaw ache for 2 days and then the left side of my face wouldn't move. I was given a low dose of steroids initially. I was horrified and recovery was very slow. For nearly a year there was little improvement. Gradually some movement came back, but I still only have 3/4 of a smile and my left eye is smaller. It affected my left ear also as sounds were very loud on that side, but that has gone better now, I do still however have a rushing noise in that ear. I am extremely conscious of it and hate having my photo taken. I tried facial stimulation for the first year and homeopathy and facial exercises, but I don't think they had much effect. I can only be thankful that it did recover to some extent and some kind people say they can't notice it !! I certainly feel for anyone who has got it as it is very distressing and initially very difficult to go out socially, but on an optimistic note it does usually improve with time, even if it doesn't completely go.

Barbara Posted 02/06/2009

I was just diagnosed with Bell's Palsy on May 31st. I haven't really had pain other than some minor neck soreness, but I've had numbness which is annoying more than anything. I had an ear infection for two weeks prior to the onset. I'm going to stick with the prednisolone and acyclovir, but I'll boost the vitamins I'm taking too and I try acupuncture as well. I have a very mild case I'm told since mine is really not noticeable unless I smile, though I tend to smile a lot and since only 1/2 my face is working at the moment the 'good' side gets quite tired. My wife is also massaging my face every night using some natural healing rub. Good luck to everyone and I hope everybody improves.

brad Posted 08/06/2009

I also have BP it started 2 days before, I was driving my car and could feel a sense of imbalance at 60MPH. Thought it was the tires, kept feeling g-force feeling, the night before my upper lip was tingling. I woke up real tired very unusual, and my front lip was numb, and sounds were to loud. I went to hospital they told me I have Bells palsy its been 5 days with little improvement. Can anyone help with some good suggestions.

fiona Posted 09/06/2009

Hi I'm just coming into my second week of bells palsy, I've never heard of it before and at first I thought I'd had a stroke. The doctor I went to see would not put me on steroids as he didn't feel that they were effective. I'm definitely going to try the vitamins. Good luck to everyone and lets hope we all recover fully.

darla Posted 09/06/2009

I have been diagnosed with BP just about 3 weeks ago. I took the prednisone, and one day worth of the antiviral. I take aspirin now for pain. It's gotten somewhat better, and what I have been doing is having energy work done and keeping a good attitude about it. I will up my intake of vitamins, cut out completely the artificial sweeteners, and get cranial massage. (that really helps me). I try not to get overtired and use a heat pack, not electric. Electrical fields aren't good for anyone. My diet is getting changed drastically, no more fast food for me. Mine has been very painful, lots of dizziness. I had a friend who contracted it just a few months before. I have had recommendations of applied kinesiology, and meditating, I am going to keep going with it, and move the stress for me.

Adrian Posted 10/06/2009

Hi all. i was diagnosed with BP about a week and a half ago. i am a 30 year old male that stays in shape and takes multi vitamines daily. i couldnt understand why this happened to me or what the cause truly is. But I have started to recover some of the functions on the left side of my face as my eye does not wonder anymore. I appreciate the people who have wrote in here. I will certainly take more b12 and follow some of the other advice i have seen here. Will keep you posted on my condition. You have all been such an inspiration. Good luck.

sadia Posted 11/06/2009

Hi to all......good to know that I am not alone to live with two faces... I'hve had BP since childhood. No treatment has worked for me...tried everything ....but I hope theres something that can help us all. Good Luck.

laurie Posted 16/06/2009

It's been 2.5 weeks since BP struck the right side of my face. I had it in my early twenties and it took one month to recover. This time around, I took the anti-viral and steriod meds. Once complete, I started B50 once a day and noticed big improvements. I regained about 90% and see a full recovery. Two things noted: I had pink eye and used a prescribed meds, it went away, then I flew on a business trip and I was stressed at work with a project. Pink eye and stress. At the hosipital my blood pressure was high due to the stress of the project. My advice, your health is #1 above all else. Take care of yourself and try B12 or B50 after you finish the meds. Good luck.

Jen Posted 19/06/2009

Richard D. Beaver, D.C. Posted 23/06/2009

On 4/14/09, one of my long time patients was diagnosed with BP. On 4/22, Roy started on an aggressive supplement program partially gleaned from sites like this and partially what has worked for me in other cases: B12 lozenges-5mg-8 times/day, Acetyl-L-carnitene (ALC), an anti-inflamatory, vitamin C-3000mg-3x/day, msm 500mg - 3x/day, High B complex -3x/day, Adenosin Triphosphate (assists B-complex), Zinc-50mcg/day, Magnesium 300mg/day, garlic extract. He chose B-12 lozenges instead of shots. Three chiropractic adjustments in 12 days. Electro-accupuncture (Solitens unit) over facial nerve branches, and more other technical treatment. I just saw Roy on 6/17, and he is about 90% recovered: no obvious, outward facial problems noticable. Now he has been doing extensive facial muscle exercises several times daily. I don't know how this site works? Health professionals who wish to contact me may do so. Individuals may also contact me if this site will allow it. My office is in Graeagle, CA, and I am listed in the telephone book. I am not looking for new patients. I just hope to be able to help someone. No gaurentee's, just what worked for us. Best wishes for a recovery, Dr. Beaver

Lynne Posted 24/06/2009

I am now 64. I got pells palsey at the age of 29. Within 6 weeks, I had it on both sides of my face. It has only improved apprx 40 per cent. I still cannot rase my eye brows or forehead, cannot close my mouth etc. Some words are difficult to say. I have never been offered any medication at all. Is it too late now for any form of treatment to help me.

Brad Posted 27/06/2009

I came down with Bells palsy 3 1/2 weeks ago, im 39. Its messed up my speech and my face. Its came back a little, my speech still hasn't. I was hung up on by my auto finance company Capital one, and got strange looks and comments. Its been hell. I went into a store in Maine Nautica and the girl wouldnt wait on me when I first got it, like I was a leppar. I can really feel for that 9 year old girl that got this disease or anyone else.I was on Prednisone for 1 week and antiviral and antibotics. I'm also taking B complex vitimans. I hope this goes away. I feel for people who get this its so difficult emotionally.

Jeanette Posted 30/06/2009

I have had BP 3 times the last time was 1 week ago it seems to get worse before it gets better.I get so impatient but... all of you that is going through this hang in there it well get better...

Howard Posted 19/07/2009

During 2008 I somehow got BP as I almost bit my lip in half eating pizza. Took the steroids for a week. Nothing. Immediately did a few of acupuncture sessions 3 X per week and nothing. Read about an expensive hard to get anti-inflamatory herb oil athletes use and decided to try it. Rubbed it on the 7th cranial nerve (between sideburns and ear) and the next morning my face was 90 per cent back to normal. Droop was gone. Now in fact the droop is over compensating and the bottom of my eye is closing and my smile is 90 per cent back and yes it still looks a little odd but much better. Helichrysum Oil. Be sure to get the pure stuff. It is expensive but well worth it. Also botox did work in lowering my eye so it didn't look closed and I guess that will have to be the protocol. I did get my hands on a bottle of b-12 and injected myself regularly after the first month, but not before the oil. Still about 90 per cent but happy it's not worse. Best to all sufferers.

nancy Posted 19/07/2009

I have been suffering from BP for 2 yrs and it's heartbreaking from all the storys I've been reading .....I feel almost hopeless. I'm 39 and had a lot of stress in my life due to sick family members and caring for my mommy that suffered a brain aneurism that almost killed her. I cared for her 8yrs before we put her in nursing home. My life was just a little crazy.... and just when things started to turn around for me...I woke up with the left side of my face completely numb. I was suffering from a terrible earache for a couple days and muscle spasms around the left side of my face. I thought the spasms were being caused by stress and lack of sleep so I payed no attention to it and for the pain in my left ear I used natural remedies.BUT, the next morning my face was numb and my words were slurred... I thought I had a stoke or bad reaction. That same day I was given Antiviral med. and 3 weeks later started going to a chiro Dr.but,none nothing helped...

For months I had to tape my left eye closed because it wouldn't close on it's own. Eating was very messy and humbling for me drooling ,slurred speech and the never ending watery eyes especially when I eat. I've tried different oils ,different vitamins and massages,I really don't know what works. I really miss my smile and dimples ....I miss laughing in public.

Emerita Posted 20/07/2009

Three weeks ago, I came down with Bell Palsy. I had ignored the twitching in my eyes, my headaches and the constant pain behind my left ear for the previous 2 weeks before the sudden onset of Bell's Palsy.

This condition has changed my life radically, and has affected me physically, emotionally and psychologically. However, I still believe this is an opportunity to appreciate life and the people around me. The only thing that frustrates me is being treated like a mentally challenged individual because of my speech impairment. My brain is still functioning as normal as it was before this condition.

For my treatment, I was on Prednisone and an antiviral medication for one week. Now I am on sublingual vitamin B12; I attend massage therapy twice a week; and will start neurological physiotherapy once a week. I am practicing words that start with P, B, M and S; and practice occasional facial exercises. Also, I started relaxation techniques and aromatherapy. Soon I will find out if the CT scan I had shows signs of any other problem I might have. Despite all my agressive attempts to get better, my speech tells me I am not making much improvement. But I am trying to remain positive and patient.

I want to thank Christy for the details she Posted 29/04/2009. There are a few things I will avoid which I have not. Good Luck everyone - God bless us all!

Cindy Posted 23/07/2009

We were told 2 days ago our 16 yr old daughter has Bell's, They put her on Predisone 10mg and Acyclovir 400mg. The Predisone she takes 5 times a day and The Acyclovir 3 times a day. The Dr. didn't tell us of the possible effects of taking these. We did know the predisone could make her depressed and/or gain weight . But! After reading this I am terrified. I know or believe Predisone has to be take taken fully , meaning you can't just stop. So! What would you suggest? and I will be giving her B12 as of this evening.

stacey Posted 30/07/2009

Hi, I was diagnosed by ruling out all the others with bp in February. I didn't have all the symptoms, but instead slurred speech and had small issues smiling and lifting my eyebrow all the way on my right side of my face. Now it is almost August and I still have the slurred speech every now and again. I really notice slurred speech after being really tired or stressed. Will this EVER go away? I only went to the hospital to get diagnosed and have never gone to neurologist or taken anything for it...any suggestions? Anything ??

FM  Posted 01/08/2009

Hi, I'm 35 have BP for the last 3 weeks. It has affected the right side of my face. I went to the doctor on day one and he put me on Steroids. Which I took for 10 days. The headaches and ear aches got worse so I went back this week (I have been once a week since I was diagnosed) The doc now tells me that I had a perforated ear drum and thrush in my mouth from the steroids and being run down prior to getting the virus. So it really is very important that you all keep taking the vitamins. I'm hoping to start physio this week. Fingers crossed we will all get better soon.

dogboat Posted 05/08/2009

Hi, I'm 28 (spent 10 years in the military - where they could not determine what was going on - so they discharged me)...a few months later after some crazy pain in my cheek I decided to go to a dentist. They gave me 2 root canals then finally an extraction. The doctor noticed I had BP, but did not treat it. When the tooth was removed, the dentists saw a large vertical crack. They are now in the process of determining how pain/trauma of the split tooth referred to my facial nerve. It is causing headaches and I can barely function. Each time I take B6 B12 and Zinc I pass out. The one thing that works for me is local anesthetic from a dentist. He numbs the whole area and life starts again(well only temporarily).

sara cash Posted 18/08/2009

i have had it for 4 yrs going on 5. the doc gave me steroids and said nothing he can do. i had a nerve put in from my leg, that didnt work. i'm still searching for a cure.

jeff robb Posted 23/08/2009

I have had BP for 2 years. I am 75% recovered. I truely believe it is stress related. It came back after a year after my brother in law was tragically killed. I notice it gets worse when Im stressed, angry or upset. You cannot tell i have it until I try to smile......I sure do miss my smile. Oh well at least it wasnt a stroke

JeffR Posted 24/08/2009

I miss my smile. I miss laughing. I miss being able to speak properly. I miss drinking out of a can. I miss having a glass of wine or a beer with my wife or friends at the fear of knowing my face droops and I slur only after one glass, I cant remember the last time I have enjoyed a drink. I miss not wanting to take family photos. I miss not wearing sunglasses, I cant squint in the sun so I cant see at all and my eyes water. I miss that look my wife used to give me when i would smile at her, she used to have this gleem in her eyes, I dont see that anymore. I wish I didnt go thru a bottle of advil every 2 weeks. I try not to complain but there are days i just want to scream from the nagging pain in my jaw, neck or ear or whatever part that wants to ache that day. After a while you get used to the "normal" pain days. Just hang in there, and pray for the best. My friends and family have all gotten used to seeing me with it, Iam the only person who wakes up every day who will never get used to it.

KEISHA Posted 10/09/2009

I have had BP for a year and 5 months. I was first diagnosed with it when I was 4months pregnant and I haven't taken anything for it because I was scared the meds would harm the baby and now I'm breastfeeding... my face has healed on its own about 50 per cent... my mouth is still lazy.

sigangtang Posted 11/09/2009

I miss my smile.I miss laughing.I miss being able to speak properly.I have had bell palsy 8 months ago and still I can not blow my mouth and I can not close my eyes properly.I m 28 yrs old, doing facial palsy exercise regularly but still had no improvement please tell me what will help me cure this condition.

Lauren Posted 19/09/2009

I woke up with bp the morning of my uncle's funeral when I was 12. I am now 25 and deal with this ailment daily. I really hate when people try to say it's not a big deal, or I can hardly notice it because THEY dont live with it. I went through my teenage years with it. I tried acupuncture, chiropractors, everything and anything. Anyone ever think about the person they'd be if they never got this, I mean if you got it young like me. I always wonder if I would be more confident and outgoing. It kills me. I dont even want to have a wedding because I don't want all the attention and pictures, ha, forget it. I miss laughing without feeling like everyone is staring at me and I hate the awkward feeling in your gut right before someone asks about it or notices it and I'm too emotional to talk about it to anyone but my mom and fiance.

Kim Posted 27/09/2009

Hi all, I am so pleased to read all of your comments and helpful suggestions. I was first diagnosed with BP in 1998 when I was 7 months pregnant with my daughter. Because I was pregnant, I could not have treatment i.e. steroids. After my daughter was born and we suffered family bereavements, I never bothered with any treatments but now, over 11 years on, I feel so self conscious of my droopy face. People who see me now think I have had a stroke because of the difference on one side of my face. Is there any sort of treatment/cure after 11 years or should I just accept how I look even though I hate it? Thanks.

A.A Posted 06/10/2009

I am 19 and have just been diagnosed with BP a week ago,and my mother has been making me pigeon soup and making me drink it everyday in the morning,the thought of it makes me gag, but I just hope I get better..my only concern is that if I do recover I hope I recover fully rather then just partially..I just had a question and my question was that the doctor told me I only have the partial efffects of BP and not the full one,so does that mean there's more chances of recovering?I was a model! what am I to do!

MMM Posted 08/10/2009

I just came down with BP on Monday. They gave me the normal steriods and val. Things didnt seem to be doing anything! I am switching over to the Vit B and others to help this along. One night of B12 and my eye has gotten better! I will keep you all posted!

Jimmy Posted 14/10/2009

This has gotten me so depressed and it's not looking good, my girlfriend has dumped me because she just can't deal with my face like that. I have done all of the above... Any advice will be much appreciated.

Tam Posted 22/10/2009

Have you guys checked out fasting to cure bp? I have had it for a few days now and I have always known about fasting and how your body goes into repair mode when fasting. So now I geuss I am being pushed to actually do it....LOL. Anyways, it is worth checking out the benefits of fasting...

Ellie Posted 24/10/2009

Wow, I'm so glad I found this and sad that so many of us have this. I just noticed yesterday when I looked at photos that the right side is swollen and droops. Freaked me out. I don't have pain, in my face and I have had a problem with my ear (can't hear, thought it was sinus related) for about a month + headaches. Two days ago I bit my cheek and right side of my tongue and didn't think anything about it. It now all makes sense (well, most of it). Today the drooping is not as noticeable and I feel OK. I have to say I have been extremely stressed and suffer from serious lack of sleep (working too much) and I do occasionally get cold sores which I guess are related to this somehow. I need to start taking better care of myself do doubt. Good luck to us all.

meka Posted 03/11/2009

Hi to all. I was diagnosed with BP in 1998 and was prescibed prednisone and had therapy and electric shocks. I'ved recovered about 75 per cent but still have problems with making a full frown, when I raise my eyebrow it's still uneven, can't move upper lip. Any suggestions? i'ts been 11 years! A lot of people just think I have a bad eye, but it's way deeper than that. I'm pleased at my recovery this far, but would like for more facial movement.

Michelle Posted 06/11/2009

Hi, I had BP a few years ago and have it again now on the opposite side. I have bought some Vitamin B12 but I am not sure how to take it. The article said 3 x the daily dosage so should I take x 3 tablets straight away or spread them out through the day? I only ask as I was told if you have too much Vitamin B12 in your suystem it is passed out through urine so I dont know whether taking it all at one will waste some of it or not? Can anyone advise me? Really appreciate any advice. Best wishes to all you BP sufferers, hope you recover soon.

Marianna Posted 10/11/2009

I got BP after I flew off a car and cracked my skull.. its been 2 months with no changes and I heard physical therapy can help but I haven't seen a doctor to help me do face exercises.. any tips on physical therapy?

Tancandra Posted 13/11/2009

Hi, Im 22 years old , I got BP, on October 2007, I was heading to Singapore for a neurologist and he gave me prednisolone for medication, after I took it for 1 months it shows no effect on my face. I was really depressed at that time. Then, I decided to go for another neurologist in Malaysia, it give me the same medication and I took it for 2 weeks. Later after that I found an acupuncture center at my hometown in Indonesia. Well, at that time I had my BP for approximately 2 months. I go for acupuncture everyday and receive 30 minutes treatment under the electric heat. On the first 4 days of the treatments I feel a movement on my face. After receiving 2 weeks treatment I feel my face was 80% recover. At the third week it shows no improvement already and I decided to stop the session and go back to Cambodia and continue my work. To date, I've had the BP for 2 years and 1 month, now I can blink my eyes and hold air in my mouth, but there is still a slight area of my face that doesnt look ideally as the old times. My eyes was normal if I didn't smile, But when I smile or under the sunshine , the left eye will looks slightly smaller than the size of the right eye and the upper left part of my mouth doesnt looks symetric with the other side during I smile. I didnt experience any pain in my ears. Right now I didnt consume any medication or receive treatment as there is no acupuncture center in cambodia. Does the vitamin B12 help? I see some of u write that it should get from injection, any idea of how should i tell the doctor if I want that injection? I mean is there any particular type of vitamin B12 that I should take for BP?



Post your comment

Name
 

Comment
(please add your comment
up to 1000 characters)
 

Email Address
(we will not publish this)
 




 Registered Office - Sea Containers House,
7th Floor, 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9JD.

Agora Lifestyles Limited is registered in England and Wales
with company number 3303666 and VAT number GB 629 7287 94.

Copyright 2009 © Agora Lifestyles