Bell’s palsy and prednisolone

[Dfcgm]

Hi never used this before, I’m currently taking prednisolone for Bell’s palsy 40mg for 1 week

Just some advice I would like

How long does Bell’s palsy generally last? I can still move my eye lid and shut it 95%

Does Bell’s palsy normally Improve quickly?

Will prednisolone affect my immune system?

How long after will my immune system be affected? (Obviously with Coronavirus I’m rather worried even though the doctor never mentioned that immune system could be a problem)

I’ve read that your not meant to stop steroids straight away my last dosage is in 2 days and isn’t gonna drop before that obviously then it will stop what problems could I encounter?

Basically I’ve never been ill before and I’m really nervous about it all

[Karen-FPUK Partner]

Hi, Bell's palsy can last from a couple of weeks to a few months, 72% will make a full recovery. It does sound like you have a milder case which is good news.

Everyone's recovery is different so no one can tell you how quickly things will improve, it is normal for it to take weeks so try not to worry if things aren't improving quickly.

There is information on our website about steroids and immunity. Please read this information (5th paragraph):

facialpalsy.org.uk/support/...

Regarding stopping steroids, this has to be discussed with your doctor. We cannot give individual medical advice.

Here are a couple of recovery stories from our website:

facialpalsy.org.uk/personal...

facialpalsy.org.uk/personal...

There are also some self-help videos on our website here:

facialpalsy.org.uk/support/...

facialpalsy.org.uk/support/...

I hope you feel better soon.

[Dfcgm in reply to Karen-FPUK]

Thankyou so much

[MichaelTT]

I had Bells Palsy in 2016, when I was 51, went to A&E where Prednisone was given and eye ointment to keep the eye lubricated. It’s obviously concerningI totally understand.

I did some research and had 1 x B12 tablet 1000ug daily for several weeks, there’s no scientific evidence that it works though I was prepared to try anything. That said it supposed to help regenerate nerve damage re-growth.

I also totally avoided alcohol, not that I drink much anyway.

Avoid excess pressure this is really important don’t worry and stay positive.

Sleep was a problem had a lot of pain at the back of my head, really sore.

You just have to learn patience that's not so easy I know but things will improve, after three weeks I started to see movement in my face never been so happy to smile again.

Look after yourself

Mike

[Dfcgm in reply to MichaelTT]

Thanks mike!