US Medical Term · conditions
Bell's Palsy
Parálisis de Bell
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Bell's Palsy |
| Spanish (Español) | Parálisis de Bell |
| Chinese (中文) | 貝爾氏麻痺 |
| Korean (한국어) | 벨 마비 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Liệt mặt Bell |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Bell's Palsy |
| Portuguese (Português) | Paralisia de Bell |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | อัมพาตใบหน้าเบลล์ |
| Japanese (日本語) | ベル麻痺 |
What it means
Bell's palsy is a sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face caused by inflammation or dysfunction of the facial nerve. It results in drooping of one side of the face, difficulty closing the eye, drooling, and changes in taste. The exact cause is unclear but is linked to viral infections such as herpes simplex. Symptoms typically appear abruptly and peak within 48 to 72 hours. Most people recover fully within weeks to months. Treatment usually includes a short course of corticosteroids and antiviral medications to speed recovery, along with eye protection.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
I woke up with Bell's palsy and the right side of my face is drooping.
Me desperté con parálisis de Bell y el lado derecho de mi cara está caído.
My eye won't close properly because of Bell's palsy and I need eye drops.
Mi ojo no cierra bien por la parálisis de Bell y necesito gotas para los ojos.
How long will it take for my Bell's palsy to fully recover?
¿Cuánto tiempo tardará en recuperarse completamente mi parálisis de Bell?
Where you'll see it
Related ICD-10-CM category
G51 Facial nerve disordersRelated terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026