Emergency Cases Northwest Group

Case 054 Ringing a Distant Bell

Situation

A man presented with headache, it was Bell's Palsy.

Background

A 38 year old man presented with a headache (behind the right ear) and loss of taste. Examination: weakness on the right side of his mouth and forehead also could not fully close the right eye. CT head was normal. Diagnosed as Bell's Palsy and commenced on steroids. In ENT clinic the following week his symptoms had worsened, now grade 5 on the House-Brackmann scale. His steroids were changed to a tapering regime.

Assessment

He had Bell's Palsy, which can cause pain behind the ear, around the jaw.

Recommendation

If you think your patient has Bell's Palsy, but can't explain why they're complaining of headache, be aware that Bell's Palsy can cause a headache.



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Emergency Cases Northwest Group