Annitah Raey's Bell's Palsy Journey and What you Need to Know to Go About it

Former radio presenter Annitah Raey recently took to her X App (Twitter) to share an update on her health journey, revealing her ongoing battle with Bell's Palsy, a condition that temporarily paralyzed her and left her facing considerable challenges.

Annitah Raey is currently recovering from Bell’s Palsy, a condition that has presented challenges in her ability to speak and eat.

In her post, Raey disclosed that her struggle with Bell's Palsy had been painful and disorienting.

"I got the sickness beginning of July, had no idea what Bell's Paralysis/Palsy was, but my mouth went sideways. I couldn't drink or eat anything, I lost my voice, and couldn't speak for a month. Lord, the pain was something else," Raey said.

However, despite the physical and emotional toll the illness took on her, Raey expressed her gratitude for the progress she has made. Three months into her battle, she shared that she was improving and thankful to be alive.

Bells Palsy according to research is a condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face.

It occurs due to damage or inflammation of the facial nerve, which controls the muscles responsible for facial expressions, taste sensations from the front two-thirds of the tongue, and some tear and saliva production.

The exact cause of Bell's palsy is not always clear, but it is believed to be related to viral infections, particularly the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1).

Other factors, such as inflammation, autoimmune reactions, and genetic predisposition, may also play a role.

 Here's how Bell's palsy comes about:

1.Nerve Inflammation

 It is thought that a viral infection or an autoimmune response causes inflammation of the facial nerve. This inflammation can lead to compression of the nerve within the bony canal through which it passes.

2.Nerve Compression

The facial nerve travels through a narrow, bony canal within the skull, known as the facial canal. Swelling and inflammation in this confined space can put pressure on the nerve, disrupting its normal function.

3.Nerve Dysfunction

When the facial nerve is compressed or inflamed, it can't transmit signals to the facial muscles properly. This results in weakness or paralysis of the affected side of the face.

Symptoms of Bell's palsy may include:

Sudden onset of weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, difficulty closing one eye or blinking, drooping of the mouth and inability to smile symmetrically, loss of the sense of taste on the front two-thirds of the tongue, Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear, excessive tearing or drooling on one side and altered or loss of the sense of taste.

Treatment and Management of Bell's Palsy:

1.Medications

 Your doctor may prescribe medications such as corticosteroids (like prednisone) to reduce inflammation and swelling of the facial nerve. Antiviral medications may also be prescribed in some cases if a viral infection is suspected.

2.Eye Protection

Since Bell's palsy can affect the ability to close one eye fully, it's essential to keep the eye moist and protect it from dust and debris. Lubricating eye drops and an eye patch can help.

3.Physical Therapy

 Facial exercises and physical therapy may be recommended to help maintain muscle tone and improve facial muscle strength and coordination.

4.Pain Management

Over-the-counter pain relievers may be used to alleviate any pain or discomfort associated with Bell's palsy.

5.Protection from Extreme Temperatures

 Be cautious in extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) as the affected side of the face may be less sensitive to temperature changes.

6.Rest and Stress Reduction

 Adequate rest and stress reduction can promote faster recovery and help manage symptoms.

Most people with Bell's palsy experience a gradual improvement in their facial muscle function within a few weeks to months.

However, recovery can vary from person to person, and some may have residual weakness or other complications.

 It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if you suspect you have Bell's palsy or experience sudden facial weakness.