Q: One of your columns several years ago mentioned the use of vitamin B12 to reverse the symptoms of Bell’s palsy. What would be the appropriate dosage to take? I am female, age 51, and had the condition about three months ago. The right side of my face experienced the extreme droopiness that lasted about four weeks, with improvement noted each week. However, three months later I still have symptoms I believe are related. I may make some type of facial expression, especially around my mouth area, and will feel like a cramping of that facial nerve/muscle. Will B12 help me?
A: For those unfamiliar with Bell’s palsy, also known as facial palsy, the condition causes weakness or total paralysis of facial muscles on one side of the face.. The mouth will droop and the individual will have problems closing the eye on the affected side of the face; yet there have been very rare instances when both sides of the face are affected at the same time. For many the condition is temporary, with visible improvement beginning within a few weeks and complete improvement seen in six months or less. Unfortunately, some individuals will have symptoms that last a lifetime and while rare, the condition can recur. Onset is generally rapid, there may be a decrease in the person’s ability to taste, he or she may suffer from headaches and pain around the jaw or ear on the affected side can occur.
It is believed the condition is generally the result of exposure to an infection, especially a viral infection such as German measles, shingles, chickenpox, Epstein-Barr virus, mumps, influenza, and others. Risk factors increasing a person’s chances of getting Bell’s palsy include being pregnant and having an upper respiratory condition.
Diagnosis is commonly made through visual examination. If questions remain, an EMG to determine nerve damage, and an MRI or CT to rule out a tumor or skull fracture might be performed.
On the home front and only with the permission of a physician, sublingual vitamin B may be the first vitamin to consider, as B6, B12 and zinc may help stimulate nerve growth. The recommended dose suggested for Bell’s palsy is 2,000 mcg per day. Symptoms of a dry, scratchy throat may occur with taking the vitamin but it should be of no consequence. There is also improvement noted by some users in adding omega-3 fish oil to the diet following B12. Fish oil is a natural anti-inflammatory that should allow for a better response to medications and steroids. Lastly, vitamin E might be considered for facial paralysis needs. Other beneficial possibilities include meditation, yoga, relaxation techniques, and acupuncture, despite the fact that there is no scientific evidence to justify their use.
Whether traditional or homeopathic remedies are utilized, the sooner a vitamin regimen can be incorporated, the sooner results should be seen but keep in mind Bell’s palsy will likely dissipate on its own with or without treatment. On the other hand, Bell’s palsy caused by Lyme disease needs to be treated with antibiotics, and Bell’s caused by herpes should be treated within 72 hours.
