Bell's Palsy guidelines, paediatrics (532)

Warning Warning: This guideline is 338 day(s) past its review date.

November 2023: This guidance is currently under review as it has gone beyond the standard review date. It reflects best practice at the time of authorship / last review and remains safe for use. If there are any concerns regarding the content then please consult with senior clinical staff to confirm.

  • Upper respiratory tract infection in previous month
  • Posterior auricular pain in previous days
  • Increased tearing
  • Dry eyes
  • Hyperacusis
  • Rapid onset - most patients present within 48hrs

  • Preceding trauma
  • General health / concurrent illnesses - other diagnoses include hypertension, acute and chronic otitis media, cholesteatoma, herpes zoster, leukaemia, birth injury and congenital.

Simple analgesia for pain (Paracetamol)

Seek medical advice if:

  • Red or painful eye
  • Continued progression of weakness after 48 hrs
  • Different symptoms
  • No improvements after 4 to 6 weeks

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 24/02/2017

Next review date: 30/04/2024

Author(s): Steve Foster.

Approved By: Paediatric Guideline Group

Document Id: 532