Angelina Jolie is a Hollywood actress and filmmaker, who became a household name for her role in the movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” which was released in 2001. She is also known for her philanthropic work and advocacy on the global stage.

However, in 2016, Jolie shocked her fans when she revealed that she had Bell’s Palsy.

What is Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. The exact cause of the condition is not known, but it is believed to be due to inflammation and swelling of the facial nerve.

The condition is typically characterized by drooping on one side of the face, making it difficult to blink, smile, or close the eyelid.

What are the Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy?

The symptoms of Bell’s Palsy can range from mild to severe and can occur suddenly or develop gradually over a few days. Some of the common symptoms of Bell’s Palsy include:.

Droopy appearance of one side of the face
Difficulty in closing one eye or blinking
Difficulty in smiling or frowning
Decreased ability to taste
Increased sensitivity to sound
Headache
Pain behind the ear or on one side of the face

How is Bell’s Palsy Diagnosed?

Bell’s Palsy is typically diagnosed based on the symptoms and a physical examination. The doctor may also conduct some tests to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms.

These tests may include imaging tests such as an MRI or a CT scan, and blood tests to check for infections or other underlying conditions.

Angelina Jolie’s Bell’s Palsy Diagnosis

Angelina Jolie revealed in a Vanity Fair interview in 2017 that she had been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy. She shared that she woke up one morning and her face was completely drooping on one side.

Jolie said that she went to see a doctor immediately, who diagnosed her with the condition. She said that it took her around six months to fully recover from the condition, and that she was grateful that it did not affect her ability to speak or communicate.

Treatment for Bell’s Palsy

There is no known cure for Bell’s Palsy. However, there are several treatments that can help manage the symptoms and speed up the recovery process. Some of the common treatments for Bell’s Palsy include:.

Prescription medications – such as corticosteroids or antiviral drugs
Eye drops or ointments – to keep the eye moist and prevent dryness
Physical therapy – to help with facial muscle strength and range of motion
Surgery – in rare cases where the facial nerve is severely damaged

Prevention of Bell’s Palsy

There is no known way to prevent Bell’s Palsy.

However, good hygiene habits such as washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and staying healthy through proper diet and exercise could help keep the immune system strong and possibly lower the risk of contracting the virus that may trigger Bell’s Palsy.

Conclusion

Bell’s Palsy is a temporary condition that affects the facial nerve. It can cause drooping on one side of the face, making it difficult to blink, smile, or close the eyelid.

Although there is no known cure for Bell’s Palsy, there are several treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and speed up recovery. If you suspect that you may have Bell’s Palsy, it is important to see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment.