Bell's Palsy
Available at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations
Immediate Bell's Palsy Evaluation & Treatment
Bell's palsy causes sudden facial weakness or paralysis requiring prompt medical evaluation to rule out stroke and begin treatment. We provide rapid neurological assessment, diagnostic testing, and evidence-based treatment including corticosteroids when appropriate. Walk-ins welcome at both Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations, open daily 8am-8pm.
When to Seek Immediate Care for Bell's Palsy
- Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
- Drooping of the mouth or eyelid on one side
- Difficulty closing one eye completely
- Loss of ability to make facial expressions on one side
- Drooling or difficulty controlling saliva
- Changes in taste or increased sensitivity to sound
- Pain around the jaw or behind the ear
- Difficulty eating or drinking due to facial weakness
- Symptoms that developed suddenly (within hours to days)
- Any facial paralysis requiring stroke evaluation
How We Diagnose & Treat Bell's Palsy
Bell's palsy requires immediate evaluation to distinguish it from stroke and other serious conditions. Our medical providers perform comprehensive neurological examinations to assess facial nerve function and rule out other causes of facial paralysis. We initiate evidence-based treatment promptly, as early intervention with corticosteroids significantly improves recovery outcomes.
What to Expect During Your Bell's Palsy Visit
Diagnostic Capabilities
Recovery Timeline & Self-Care
Most Bell's palsy patients begin recovering within 2-3 weeks, with complete recovery occurring in 70-80% of cases within 3-6 months. Early treatment with corticosteroids significantly improves outcomes. Protect your affected eye with artificial tears, eye patches at night, and sunglasses during the day. Gentle facial exercises may help once initial symptoms stabilize. Follow up with your primary care physician or neurologist for ongoing monitoring. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-emergency conditions, visit True Compassion Urgent Care at either our Palm Beach Gardens or Stuart location. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Available at Both Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Bell's palsy is not a stroke, though facial paralysis can be a stroke symptom. This is why immediate medical evaluation is critical. Our providers perform comprehensive neurological assessments to distinguish Bell's palsy from stroke and other serious conditions. Bell's palsy affects only the facial nerve, while stroke typically causes additional symptoms like arm weakness, speech difficulties, or confusion.
Seek medical care immediately when you notice facial weakness or paralysis. Treatment with corticosteroids is most effective when started within 72 hours of symptom onset. Early treatment significantly improves your chances of complete recovery. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both locations for rapid evaluation.
Most Bell's palsy cases are diagnosed clinically through physical examination and neurological assessment. Imaging is typically not needed unless your provider suspects stroke, tumor, or other underlying conditions. We can arrange appropriate imaging if clinically indicated and provide referrals for follow-up care.
Bell's palsy is not 'cured' but most patients recover fully with time and appropriate treatment. According to medical research, 70-80% of patients experience complete recovery within 3-6 months. Early corticosteroid treatment significantly improves recovery rates. Some patients may have mild residual weakness, but severe permanent paralysis is uncommon.
Eye protection is crucial because Bell's palsy often prevents complete eye closure. Use artificial tears every 1-2 hours while awake, wear an eye patch at night, and use sunglasses outdoors. Tape your eyelid closed at night if needed. We provide detailed eye care instructions during your visit and can prescribe appropriate eye protection products.
While we can diagnose and initiate treatment for Bell's palsy, follow-up with a neurologist may be recommended for cases that don't improve as expected or have atypical features. We provide referrals when appropriate and coordinate your ongoing care. Most straightforward cases can be managed with primary care follow-up.
Bell's palsy is believed to result from viral inflammation of the facial nerve, often associated with herpes simplex virus. Other factors may include immune system responses, reduced blood flow to the nerve, or viral reactivation. The exact cause isn't always identified, but the condition is not contagious and typically occurs without warning.
Most patients see significant improvement within weeks to months. According to medical studies, approximately 70-80% of Bell's palsy patients recover completely. Factors that improve prognosis include early treatment with corticosteroids, younger age, and incomplete paralysis at onset. We monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed to optimize recovery.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not rely on this information for emergency medical treatment.
No physician-patient relationship is created by viewing this content. This information does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to Get Care?
Walk-ins welcome at both locations. Open daily 8am-8pm.