Popular singer Nil Moliner puzzled his fans by sharing an update about his health. In a short video message, he showed the effects of facial nerve neuritis—a condition that has significantly altered his facial expressions. The musician was quick to reassure his audience, saying that he is already under the care of specialists and that the situation is not a serious threat, although it looks alarming, especially when he tries to smile.
This condition, better known as Bell’s palsy, is much more common than one might think. Every year, thousands of people are affected, and it usually occurs suddenly, without any prior symptoms. The main danger at the onset is panic and incorrect self-diagnosis. The symptoms of facial asymmetry are easily mistaken for a stroke, which can cause real fear. Distinguishing between these two conditions is of utmost clinical importance, since a stroke requires immediate hospitalization and a completely different treatment approach.
Neurology experts identify two main types of facial paralysis. The first, central facial paralysis, is associated with brain damage. The second, peripheral paralysis (also known as Bell’s palsy), is the most common type in adults. Its exact cause often remains a mystery, but the medical community leans toward a viral theory. It is believed that in the vast majority of cases, the condition is triggered by the reactivation of dormant infections in the body, such as herpes simplex virus type 1 or varicella-zoster virus.
The clinical picture develops rapidly, literally within one or two days. It manifests as unilateral weakness of the facial muscles. The person finds it difficult or impossible to close the eye on the affected side, raise the eyebrow, and the corner of the mouth droops. Motor impairments are often accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms, such as changes in taste perception, increased sensitivity to sounds (hyperacusis), and reduced production of tears and saliva. Sometimes, this is also accompanied by pain.
The mainstay of treatment is corticosteroids, which are usually prescribed in tablet form for a course of five to ten days. Their primary role is to reduce nerve inflammation. Eye protection is also extremely important during therapy. Because the eyelid does not close fully, the cornea can dry out, which may lead to ulcers and other complications. Therefore, patients are strongly advised to use artificial tear drops and other measures to keep the eye moist and protected.
Recovery speed varies from person to person, but the overall outlook is quite positive. Most patients notice significant improvement within the first 3-4 weeks. Statistics show that more than two-thirds of people fully recover within six months, though some may experience minor residual effects. In particularly severe cases, antiviral medications may be added to steroids to enhance the effect.
If the weakness affects only the lower part of the face—such as a drooping mouth corner, while the forehead and eye move normally—emergency medical attention is required. This could indicate central facial paralysis linked to brain problems. An initial assessment can be done by a general practitioner or in the emergency department, after which the patient will likely be referred for further evaluation by a neurologist or an otolaryngologist.
