It must be remembered that Bell's palsy can show the first signs of improvement within three weeks of onset, without the need for treatment. Lodging of food can occur between the gums and cheek, therefore oral hygiene is essential to prevent the onset of oral disease. Eye drops should be used and manual blinking carried out. The good news is that patients who wear contact lenses can continue using them, as long as the lower eyelid is capable of holding the lens in place and the wearer ensures that they are kept moist. Contact lenses have the ability to hold water and also protect the eye from air particles.
Eye patches are useful for periods of sleep, to further protect the eye.
Sound can often appear louder than it actually is, therefore ear plugs can be used. Light facial massages can stimulate muscles without risk, however excessive movement is not advised as it can lead to abnormal muscle functioning. Warm gel packs will relieve pain in sensitive areas, as they provide moist heat. A self applied eyelid weight to the upper eyelid helps in the process of blinking, due to the influence of gravity. This type of eyelid weight is generally used in temporary sufferers of Bell's palsy and is available in a wide range of skin tones, see figure 2.