Question 1

Which symptoms may occur with Bell's palsy? (Select all that apply.)&#10;A) Alteration in taste&#10;B) Decreased hearing&#10;C) Drooling&#10;D) Inability to open the eye&#10;E) Tinnitus

Accepted Answer

A, C, E

Question 2

A 35-year-old patient reports suddenly experiencing an asymmetric smile along with drooping and tearing in one eye. The patient has a history of a recent viral illness but is otherwise healthy. During the exam, the provider notes that there is unilateral full-face paralysis on the right side. What is the initial intervention for this patient?

A) Perform confirmatory diagnostic tests.
B) Prescribe oral corticosteroids.
C) Recommend wearing an eye patch.
D) Refer the patient to a neurologist.

B

Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms are consistent with Bell's palsy, which is characterized by acute facial paralysis due to inflammation of the facial nerve. The initial treatment for Bell's palsy is oral corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation and improve outcomes. Confirmatory diagnostic tests (such as magnetic resonance imaging) may be ordered, but they are not the initial intervention. Wearing an eye patch may be recommended to protect the eye from dryness or irritation due to decreased tear production, but it is not the primary treatment for Bell's palsy. Referring the patient to a neurologist may be appropriate if there are concerns about other causes of facial paralysis or if the patient does not respond to initial treatment.

Question 3

What is recommended to prevent ophthalmic complications in patients with Bell's palsy?&#10;A) Acupuncture&#10;B) Lubricating eye drops&#10;C) Patching of the eye&#10;D) Sunglasses

Accepted Answer

Lubricating eye drops are recommended to prevent ophthalmic complications in patients with Bell's palsy, as the condition can cause difficulty in closing the eyelid and lead to dryness and irritation of the eye. Acupuncture and sunglasses are not proven to be effective for this purpose, and patching of the eye may actually worsen the dryness and irritation.

Deck 172: Bells Palsy