Bell's Palsy & Meniere's Disease

Bell's palsy and Ménière's disease are two different conditions that can plague sufferers with a variety of symptoms like a droopy face, headaches, ringing in the ears and hearing loss. Sometimes people with these diseases can have a hard time coping and may need to seek support.

Bell's Palsy

• Bell's palsy is a condition whereby the nerve responsible for the facial muscles on one side gets compressed or swollen. Bell's palsy symptoms usually get better on their own in a few weeks, though steroids can aid recovery. Total recovery can take up to six months. Some people experience a recurrence, while others never fully recover.

Symptoms of Bell's Palsy

• Symptoms include a sudden weakness or paralysis of one side of the face or a facial droop. The most common cause is the herpes simplex virus. People who are pregnant or who have diabetes or a cold or the flu seem to be more often affected.

Ménière's Disease

• Ménière's disease affects the inner ear creating vertigo (a spinning feeling), hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Ménière's disease usually occurs in people in their forties or fifties and usually affects only in one ear.

Cause and Cure of Ménière's Disease

• The cause is thought to be an abnormal amount of inner ear fluid. There is no cure for Ménière's disease but there are ways to control some of the symptoms. Medicine for vertigo, lifestyle changes and surgery are available options.

Alternative Treatments

• Alternative therapies like acupuncture and relaxation techniques have been used to treat people with Bell's palsy. Those with Ménière's may find it helpful to seek encouragement in a support group.