Anna before Bell’s palsy
Anna has had to do all her own research about her health condition. She found more help after setting up a WhatsApp group with other ladies affected by Bell’s palsy.
I was going about my day no problems, I went to my usual craft class and a friend said my eye is twitching, I said: ‘Is it?’ When I got home, I had a bath and came downstairs, and I could feel my face was different and my whole right side had dropped. I called 999 and an ambulance came and I was initially treated for a stroke with steroids and antivirals for 10 days. They later said it was Bell’s palsy as I could move my arms.
I struggled to walk, and it was several weeks before I could walk unaided. Over the course of 18 months I’ve had to learn to speak again even though I do still struggle with certain letters and words and when tired I’m very slurred. I have to drink out of a straw otherwise food is all down my face and eating is an issue as I can’t use the right side of my mouth. I can’t open it fully and I’ve totally lost my smile which I treasure. This upsets me the most, the fact I can no longer smile. I get constant ulcers in my mouth and my face is in constant everyday pain. I’ve had earache every day all day since.
Anna after Bell’s palsy struck
One health professional said my jaw was a problem! I have nothing wrong with my jaw, so my GP referred me to a hospital in Oxfordshire which is where I had two MRI scans. My doctor has no idea what to do with me and doesn’t understand. I have to do all my own research and fact finding and I literally tell her where to refer me and why. I’ve also had to visit another hospital for an MRI, all of which is a five-hour commute for me. I’ve had three bouts of Botox so far which has helped the pain in my face while it’s working but when it starts to wear off my face gradually drops again. I’ve had to do so much on my own and discovered no one is going to help you but you.
I set up a What’sApp group of ladies the same as me and we all talk to each other about anything and everything. Currently I have an appointment to see a consultant at a London hospital, after reaching out to a lady with Bell’s palsy who had also shared her story on Facial Palsy UK. She had nerve and muscle surgery after four years with Bell’s palsy and I am now hoping I can have the same.
Disclaimer: Please note that views expressed are person’s own and should not be considered a recommendation of particular medical treatments, therapies or surgeries. We would always advise you seek advice from a health professional with experience in facial palsy who can assess your individual needs.