Bell's Palsy

[calcapt]

Just curious how the FAA would view an active pilot (Class 1 medical) who contracted Bell's Palsy about a year ago and has recovered about 95 percent of facial function. Eyes and everything else is fine, just a bit of paralysis below the right eye and cheek area but normal fuctions otherwise. Any idea about the chances of contracting this a second time? A close friend of mine is in this very situation. I don't believe the FAA was ever told when it occured. Thank you sssoooooo much in advance for your thoughts and comments.

[Blackhawk]

Originally Posted by calcapt

Just curious how the FAA would view an active pilot (Class 1 medical) who contracted Bell's Palsy about a year ago and has recovered about 95 percent of facial function. Eyes and everything else is fine, just a bit of paralysis below the right eye and cheek area but normal fuctions otherwise. Any idea about the chances of contracting this a second time? A close friend of mine is in this very situation. I don't believe the FAA was ever told when it occured. Thank you sssoooooo much in advance for your thoughts and comments.

I contracted Bell's Palsy several years ago, but it cleared up within about 4 months. Not sure where it came from, or where it went.
The only concern the FAA ME had was blurred vision in one eye as my eye lid would not close all the way. Once I could blink and the vision returned, I was up.
The military, however, was a different story. I was grounded until clear of all symptoms for 30 days.

[My Flight Surgeon]

Most cases of Bell's palsy are due to a viral infection causing swelling on the facial nerve. There is nothing to prevent you from flying. The residual weakness some people have may cause a dryness in an eye. This can be treated with drops or ointment but the visual problem shopuld not be an issue for most folks. I have several pilots who have had Bell's palsy and have no porblems keeping a Class 1 medical.

[Timbuff10]

I knew a guy who had this a few years ago. How do you contract it? Is this from just touching a doorknob or something and then rubbing your eye type of thing? Will washing hands more prevent it?

[calcapt]

Originally Posted by My Flight Surgeon

Most cases of Bell's palsy are due to a viral infection causing swelling on the facial nerve. There is nothing to prevent you from flying. The residual weakness some people have may cause a dryness in an eye. This can be treated with drops or ointment but the visual problem shopuld not be an issue for most folks. I have several pilots who have had Bell's palsy and have no porblems keeping a Class 1 medical.

Thanks so much for the info. My friend will be greatly relieved.

[My Flight Surgeon]

You are welcome