✅ Bell’s Palsy: Answer Key

1. False
   Bell’s palsy usually affects only one side of the face, not both sides.
   
   

2. False
   Bell’s palsy is not the same as a stroke. It affects the facial nerve, while a stroke affects the brain.
   
   

3. True
   A virus—like the herpes virus—can cause Bell’s palsy.
   
   

4. True
   Facial weakness or paralysis is a common symptom of Bell’s palsy.
   
   

5. False
   Bell’s palsy does not usually affect the arms. If arms or legs are weak, it may be a stroke and needs emergency care.
   
   

6. True
   Steroids like prednisone can help reduce swelling in the facial nerve.
   
   

7. False
   Most people with Bell’s palsy get better, sometimes within weeks or months.
   
   

8. True
   If your eye won’t close, you must protect it with drops or a patch to avoid dryness or injury.
   
   

9. True
   Facial muscle weakness may make it hard to chew or drink, especially on one side.
   
   

10. False
    You should sit upright while eating to avoid choking or food going down the wrong way.
    
    

11. True
    Facial exercises can help the muscles regain strength and movement.
    
    

12. True
    You should call your nurse or doctor if your symptoms are getting worse or not improving.
    
    

13. True
    The cold sore virus (herpes simplex) is one of the common viruses linked to Bell’s palsy.
    
    

14. False
    Surgery is not usually needed for Bell’s palsy. Treatment is mostly medicine, rest, and therapy.
    
    

15. True
    It’s okay to monitor mild symptoms at first because many cases get better on their own.
    
    

16. True
    Eye care, like drops and a patch, helps protect the eye that doesn’t blink properly.
    
    

17. True
    Go to the ER for serious symptoms like chest pain or trouble breathing—these may not be Bell’s palsy.
    
    

18. True
    Bell’s palsy can cause drooling and slurred speech due to weak facial muscles.
    
    

19. True
    Most people fully recover from Bell’s palsy within weeks or a few months.
    
    

20. True
    Stress and fatigue can make the body’s healing slower and may trigger or worsen symptoms.