BELL'S PALSY since birth, need help figuring out cause.

[TATY18]

my 14 month old daughter was born with what has been diagnosed as bells palsy. she has been to neuro, cardio, & the oviouse pediatrician. was born with congenital heart disease, (ASD) no surgery needed & also has a very small murmur.was told she would outgrow all of the above. she is currently doing physical therapy &* occupational therapy & speech therapy. so much for outgrowing the palsy. her mouth is very unsymmetrical when she cries or smiles. also doesn't walk very well & is showing slight behavioral symptoms. the wierdest thing is i also was diagnosed with bell's palsy 2 weeks postpartum, & i have reoccuring episodes. about every 3-4 months & also unexplained why. none of the health professionals we have seen think they are related but i still stand skeptical. my question is will her mouth ever be symmetrical? & how will this affect her in the long run?

[Debbie Miller, RN]

Hello,
In most cases Bell's palsy resolves on its own but in varying time frames. For some it is only a few weeks; others years. In some there could be lingering weakness even when the paralysis has gone. Rarely it can be permanent. It is mostly cosmetic and I know this is frustrating but I'm afraid only time will tell if there is lingering effects for your child. There are no tests to determine the outcome.

Concentrate on just loving and enjoying your baby. I am glad she is getting the therapy to help.

Best wishes.