Who Is at Risk for Bell’s Palsy?

Are You at Risk?

Approximately 40,000 people in the United States are affected by Bell’s palsy every year. While the condition can occur at almost any age, research has identified certain groups who are at a higher risk of developing the disorder.

1. Expecting Mothers

• Pregnant women, particularly those in their third trimester or who have recently given birth, are more susceptible to Bell’s palsy.

• The exact cause remains unclear, but hormonal changes, fluid retention, and increased blood pressure during pregnancy might contribute to the risk.

• Good news: Bell’s palsy does not appear to affect the developing fetus or cause complications during childbirth.

2. People with Diabetes

• Individuals with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of developing Bell’s palsy.

• Researchers believe this is due to damage to the blood vessels caused by consistently high blood sugar levels, which may impair blood flow to the facial nerve (7th cranial nerve).

3. Patients with Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URIs)

• Those suffering from URIs, such as the common cold or flu, are also more vulnerable to Bell’s palsy.

• While the exact connection is not fully understood, scientists suspect that a weakened immune system allows dormant viruses (like the herpes simplex virus) to reactivate and attack the facial nerve.