16/12/2025
FACIAL PALSY❗
Why Do Facial Palsy (Bell’s Palsy) Cases Increase in Winter?
Bell’s palsy is a sudden weakness or paralysis of facial muscles due to facial nerve (CN VII) involvement. A noticeable rise in cases is seen during colder months — here’s why:
Key Reasons
1️⃣ Cold Exposure & Vasoconstriction
Low temperatures cause narrowing of blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the facial nerve. This can lead to nerve ischemia and inflammation, triggering palsy.
2️⃣ Facial Nerve Has Blood Supply
Like all nerves, the facial nerve is supplied by vasa nervorum. Any compromise in this micro-circulation increases the risk of nerve dysfunction.
3️⃣ Viral Reactivation in Winter
Cold weather weakens immunity, allowing latent viruses (especially Herpes Simplex Virus) to reactivate, causing facial nerve inflammation.
4️⃣ Sudden Temperature Changes
Exposure to cold wind, air conditioners, or heaters after sweating can cause local nerve irritation and edema.
5️⃣ Reduced Immunity
Vitamin D deficiency, seasonal infections, and poor nutrition in winter lower immune defense, making nerves more vulnerable.
6️⃣ Increased Muscle Stiffness
Cold leads to muscle tightness and reduced tissue elasticity, which may worsen nerve compression around the facial canal.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
✔ People exposed to cold winds
✔ Diabetes & hypertensive patients
✔ Individuals with low immunity
✔ Those with previous viral infections
Early Symptoms to Watch For
⚠ Facial asymmetry
⚠ Difficulty closing eye
⚠ Drooling
⚠ Altered taste
⚠ Ear or jaw pain
Prevention Tips
✔ Protect face from cold air
✔ Avoid direct AC/fan exposure
✔ Maintain immunity & hydration
✔ Start physiotherapy early if symptoms appear
Physiotherapy Matters
Early physiotherapy helps: ✔ Reduce nerve inflammation
✔ Prevent muscle stiffness
✔ Improve facial symmetry
✔ Speed up recovery
Book Your Appointments at Abbas Physiogenics for consultations & quick recovery.
0303-8926834
0332-6553706
