Suggest Treatment For Bell's Palsy

Posted on Fri, 27 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 27 Jan 2017 Answered on

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a history of bell's palsy.
Yesterday i received vaccinations for typhoid, the flu, hep A and hep B. Today ive been experiencing facial numbness. Can any of those vaccines trigger this?

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Rare but possible.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

There exist some publications regarding cranial nerve palsy like Bell palsy after vaccination with hepatitis B and flu vaccine. However these cases have been very rare only a few among million of people getting these vaccines. So while it is not impossible to develop Bell palsy or trigeminal neuropathy (trigeminal nerve supplies sensation for the face) it is very unlikely. In addition the involvement should be mild and transitory so even if that is the case should be improving soon.
If persisting other possible causes should also be sought like electrolyte alterations, thyroid imbalance etc, through some routine blood tests. Anxiety can also play a role in these cases.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar