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Bell's palsy is a paralysis or weakness of the muscles on one side of the face. It causes one side of the face to droop and affects not only taste but also saliva and tear production.
In most cases of Bell's palsy, the nerve that controls muscles on either side of the face is damaged by inflammation. The cause of this inflammation is not clear, but it may be linked to a viral infection.
Current as of: August 25, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Colin Chalk MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
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