Bell’s Palsy and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is used in a range of medical and recovery settings and is sometimes explored by people with Bell’s palsy who are looking for additional support alongside their existing treatment plan.
At our Hertfordshire-based therapy centre, we provide access to oxygen therapy in a safe, controlled environment. Many people attend alongside the care they receive from their GP, neurologist, or other healthcare professionals.
Potential benefits of Oxygen Therapy for Bell’s Palsy may include:
- Support for facial nerve recovery
- Improved oxygen delivery to affected tissues
- Support for the body’s natural healing processes
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved wellbeing
- Increased confidence during recovery
What is Bell's Palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes sudden weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face.
It occurs when the facial nerve (also known as the seventh cranial nerve) becomes inflamed or compressed, affecting the muscles responsible for facial expression.
The exact cause is not always known, although Bell’s palsy is often associated with viral infections.
According to the NHS, most people begin to recover within a few weeks, although recovery times can vary and some people experience longer-lasting symptoms.
Symptoms of Bell's Palsy
Important: If you suddenly develop facial weakness, you should seek urgent medical attention to rule out more serious conditions such as a stroke. Bell’s palsy should always be diagnosed by a healthcare professional.
Symptoms usually develop suddenly and typically affect one side of the face.
Common symptoms include:
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
- Facial drooping
- Difficulty smiling or closing one eye
- Pain around the jaw or behind the ear
- Changes in taste
- Increased or reduced tear production
- Drooling
- Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear
- Headache
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Support Bell's Palsy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing oxygen in a pressurised chamber. This allows oxygen to dissolve more effectively into the bloodstream and reach tissues throughout the body.
As explained by University of Michigan Health, HBOT increases the amount of oxygen available to the body’s tissues, supporting natural healing and recovery processes.
Researchers have explored several ways in which oxygen therapy may support recovery from Bell’s palsy, including:
- Improved oxygen delivery to the facial nerve and surrounding tissues
- Support for circulation in areas affected by inflammation
- Reduced inflammation around the facial nerve
- Support for tissue repair and the body’s natural healing processes
- Support for nerve recovery, which may assist the restoration of facial movement
While research continues, these mechanisms are thought to help create an environment that supports healing following facial nerve injury or inflammation.
Potential Benefits for Bell's Palsy
Some people choose to explore Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy alongside their existing Bell’s palsy treatment. Potential benefits that are sometimes discussed in relation to oxygen therapy include:
- Support for Facial Nerve Recovery: Research has explored whether increased oxygen delivery may help support the recovery of the facial nerve following inflammation.
- Improved Facial Movement: Some individuals report gradual improvements in facial movement and muscle control while recovering from Bell’s palsy.
- Reduced Discomfort: HBOT may help support the body’s natural response to inflammation, which can contribute to improved comfort during recovery.
- Support for Overall Wellbeing: Many people describe feeling more energised and positive while attending regular oxygen therapy sessions.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not a treatment for Bell’s palsy itself, and outcomes can vary from person to person.
Try Oxygen Therapy for Bell's Palsy
If you are living with Bell’s palsy and would like to learn more about Oxygen Therapy, we would be happy to help.
As a registered charity based in Hertfordshire, we provide access to Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in a safe, welcoming environment. We support people from across the local area who are looking to explore additional wellbeing and recovery options alongside their existing healthcare.
We are proud to operate the only group Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy chamber in Hertfordshire.
Research into Bell's Palsy & Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has been investigated as a complementary approach to supporting recovery from Bell’s palsy for several decades.
Researchers have explored whether increasing oxygen delivery to the facial nerve may help reduce inflammation and support the body’s natural repair processes.
Some studies have reported improved recovery in certain individuals when HBOT has been used alongside conventional treatment, particularly when therapy is started early. However, research findings have been mixed, and further high-quality studies are needed.
HBOT is generally considered a complementary therapy that may be used alongside standard medical care rather than as a replacement for treatments such as corticosteroids.
References
Bell's Palsy & Oxygen Therapy FAQs
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is not a treatment for Bell’s palsy itself, but some people choose to explore it as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatment.
Research has investigated whether increased oxygen delivery may support the body’s natural healing processes following facial nerve inflammation. More research is needed to fully understand its role.
Yes. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy should not replace treatment recommended by your healthcare professional. It is intended to complement, not replace, standard medical care.
If you develop symptoms of Bell’s palsy, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early medical treatment is important, and your healthcare professional will advise you on the most appropriate care.
No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to discuss oxygen therapy and whether it may be suitable for you.