Hi, my name is Ben. I’m 38 years old, and a training manager. A lot of my job involves presenting, and I love face to face engagement, especially because I get to talk about how awesome the experience of movies and music can be.
Just shy of two weeks ago as of writing this, I woke up and felt – well, didn’t feel – the left side of my face. I could see that there was drooping, and I couldn’t independently close the left eye. I could also feel some pressure behind the ear.
After a quick check of my arms and legs and if they could move normally, I had convinced myself it wasn’t a stroke. Maybe I just slept on my neck funny.
By mid-afternoon, I was getting pretty concerned that nothing was improving. A call to 111, and within the hour I was in the hospital, getting slid into CT and MRI machines for diagnosis. Bell’s Palsy was the culprit. As with many of my age who grew up watching wrestling, images of Jim Ross, the famous commentator who also had Bell’s Palsy, were coming to mind.
I’m not going to sugarcoat it – I’ve found these couple of weeks tough. Super easy to fatigue, having to sleep with the eye taped down, having to wipe ketchup off my lips because I can’t quite fit my food into my mouth properly, that kind of thing. Worst bit is not being able to say ‘pink hippopotamus’ correctly. I think the mental aspect has been harder to cope with than the physical side.
Just before writing this, though – I stood in front of my mirror. I try not to look at myself for a few days at a time where possible, so I can more clearly see any changes or improvements. The drooping was lessened, my eye was getting less irritated.
All good things.
Even better, though – I could just about, with some effort, get the affected side of my mouth to ever so slightly curl upwards. Only for the briefest of moments. But it’s progress.
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.