Bell's palsy is a disease that very few people would have heard about, but if it happens to someone, it can cause a lot of trouble. A leader from Maharashtra has also been diagnosed with this disease. 

What is Bell's Palsy: Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Dhananjay Munde said on 20 February 2025 that he has been diagnosed with 'Bell's Palsy' and is unable to speak properly, due to which he is unable to participate in cabinet meetings. However, he has promised that he will appear in public after recovering.

Dhananjay Munde told about his problem

Dhananjay Munde wrote in a Facebook post, "I had surgery on both my eyes 15 days ago. I was advised to take care of my eyes for about 10 days, especially from bright light, dust and sunlight. Meanwhile, I was diagnosed with a disease called Bell's Palsy. Due to this disease, I am not able to speak properly for 2 minutes. Therefore, I am not able to participate in one or two cabinet meetings and the party's Janta Darbar program." 

What is Bell's palsy?

Bell's palsy is a medical condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. It is caused by inflammation or damage to the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which controls movement of one side of the face. It causes drooping of the mouth, difficulty closing the eyes, speech problems and loss of facial expressions.

Causes and risk factors of Bell's palsy

The exact cause of Bell's palsy is not always clear, but it is often linked to viral infections such as herpes simplex (cold sores), Epstein-Barr virus, or respiratory infections. Other risk factors include diabetes, pregnancy, stress, and weakened immunity.

Symptoms of the disease

1. Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face

2. Sagging of the mouth and difficulty smiling

3. Difficulty closing the eyes

4. Loss of taste in food 

5. Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear

Treatment and recovery

Bell's palsy is usually temporary, with most patients recovering within a few weeks to months. Treatment may include corticosteroids, antiviral medications, physical therapy, and eye care. While this can be worrying, early treatment and medication can improve the chances of recovery.

Disclaimer: Dear reader, thank you for reading this news. This news is written only to make you aware. We have taken the help of home remedies and general information in writing this. If you read anything related to your health anywhere, then definitely consult a doctor before adopting it.