**Question:** True about Bell's palsy -

A. Bell's palsy is a type of facial nerve palsy caused by viral infection
B. Bell's palsy typically affects older adults
C. Facial paralysis in Bell's palsy is usually symmetric
D. Treatment for Bell's palsy focuses on managing symptoms, not the underlying cause

**Correct Answer:**

**Core Concept:** Bell's palsy is a type of peripheral facial nerve palsy caused by viral infection, typically affecting the seventh cranial nerve. The facial nerve controls the muscles involved in facial expressions, such as smiling, laughing, and crying.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**

Bell's palsy is rightly described as a type of facial nerve palsy. It is caused by viral infection, typically affecting the seventh cranial nerve. This condition is named after Sir Charles Bell, a Scottish surgeon who studied the facial nerve in detail. Although the facial nerve is commonly affected in older adults, it can occur at any age.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Viral infection is a contributing factor but not the primary cause of Bell's palsy. While older adults are more susceptible, it can affect people of any age.

B. Treatment for Bell's palsy focuses on managing symptoms and complications, not solely on addressing the viral infection itself. Antiviral medications may be prescribed, but the primary goal is to alleviate symptoms and prevent secondary infections.

C. Facial paralysis in Bell's palsy is typically asymmetric, with one side of the face being more affected than the other. Although the degree of paralysis can vary, the condition is usually asymmetric rather than symmetric.

**Clinical Pearl:**

Bell's palsy often presents with unilateral facial paralysis, which can be triggered by a viral infection, typically herpes simplex virus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications rather than solely addressing the viral infection. Understanding this distinction helps guide appropriate management strategies for patients with Bell's palsy.