Bell's Palsy

GGC Paediatric Guidelines
NHS GGC

November 2023: This guidance is currently under review as it has gone beyond the standard review date. It reflects best practice at the time of authorship / last review and remains safe for use. If there are any concerns regarding the content then please consult with senior clinical staff to confirm.

  • Upper respiratory tract infection in previous month
  • Posterior auricular pain in previous days
  • Increased tearing
  • Dry eyes
  • Hyperacusis
  • Rapid onset - most patients present within 48hrs

Consider differential diagnosis

  • Preceding trauma
  • General health / concurrent illnesses - other diagnoses include hypertension, acute and chronic otitis media, cholesteatoma, herpes zoster, leukaemia, birth injury and congenital.

Examination

Investigation

Management

Follow up

Patient information

Simple analgesia for pain (Paracetamol)

Seek medical advice if:

  • Red or painful eye
  • Continued progression of weakness after 48 hrs
  • Different symptoms
  • No improvements after 4 to 6 weeks

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 24/02/2017

Next review date: 30/04/2024

Author(s): Steve Foster.

Approved By: Paediatric Guideline Group