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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffMost people with Bell's palsy recover fully — with or without treatment. But your doctor may suggest medications or physical therapy to help speed your recovery. Surgery is rarely an option for Bell's palsy.
Medications
Study results have been mixed regarding the effectiveness of two types of drugs commonly used to treat Bell's palsy — corticosteroids and antiviral medications.
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are powerful anti-inflammatory agents. If they can reduce the swelling of the facial nerve, it will fit more comfortably within the bony corridor that surrounds it. If Bell's palsy is triggered by a virus, then an antiviral drug — such as acyclovir or valacyclovir — may stop the progression of the viral infection.
Some clinical studies show benefit from early treatment with corticosteroids, antivirals or a combination of both types of drugs. Other studies do not. Evidence of the effectiveness of corticosteroids appears to be stronger than that for antiviral drugs.
Physical therapy
Paralyzed muscles can shrink and shorten, causing permanent contractures. Massaging and exercising your facial muscles may help prevent this from occurring. Moist heat may help relieve pain.
Surgery
One way to relieve the pressure on the facial nerve is to surgically open the bony passage through which it passes. This decompression surgery is controversial and rarely recommended. In some cases, however, plastic surgery may be needed to make your face look and work better.
