Sonia is passionate about raising awareness that Facial Palsy is not always Bell’s palsy after she was nearly misdiagnosed.
Sonia before facial palsy
In A&E and feeling extremely unwell I had to challenge the diagnosis offered for my facial paralysis and was almost discharged with a misdiagnosis. I had to reiterate to several doctors that I had been bitten whilst in a deer park, my bite was visible but not the usual bullseye associated with Lyme Disease. It was only through my perseverance that I was admitted to hospital and subsequently diagnosed with Lyme Disease, and I feel very fortunate that I was prescribed correctly. My story would not have the same outcome if I had not challenged the original diagnosis. Whilst I am expected to make a full recovery, progress is extremely slow and I am very grateful to be able to attend the Facial Palsy support group which is run twice a month.
I am posting this for awareness that Facial Palsy can happen instantly to anyone at any time. The more informed you are of the reason Facial Palsy can occur, the quicker you can present yourself for treatment, pointing out associated symptoms which will result in a better outcome.
Currently the NHS website only lists Bell’s Palsy under Health A-Z. Most people have heard of Bell’s Palsy and you may initially think this is your diagnosis. However, facial paralysis can result as a consequence of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, Lyme Disease, tumours and cancers.
Sonia after facial palsy struck
The treatment for Bell’s Palsy and Facial Palsy due to Lyme Disease for example differs, so it is imperative that the cause is quickly and correctly diagnosed. It is important to challenge and represent yourself based on your knowledge and symptoms when attending A&E or a GP appointment, albeit in a very scary situation.
Please help Facial Palsy UK in achieving their goal in having the NHS page updated to include Facial Palsy separately to Bell’s Palsy. This will help inform GP’s and first responders to recognise and understand symptoms to identify the best pathway of care. Remember Facial Palsy can happen to anyone at any time and by educating yourself you could be in a position to help inform others. Everyone I have spoken to knows someone who has experienced Facial Palsy and most were unaware of the multiple reasons it can occur. Remember failure to obtain the correct diagnosis can result in serious consequences.
Let’s campaign to update the NHS page #PageNotFound
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.