EFFECTS OF BELL’S PALSY ON PSYCHOSOCIAL HEALTH OF PATIENTS IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS PESHAWAR

Authors

  • Kousar Iqra National University, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Muhammad Tariq Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Zindagi School of Health Science  Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Veneeza Bangash Sarhad University of science & Information technology, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Anosha Jamal Physio Plus Clinic, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Mamoona Waseem Physio Plus Clinic, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Aqsa Khan NCS University system, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author
  • Inayat Ullah Sarhad University of science & Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.71000/7bm79g43

Keywords:

Bell’s palsy, facial paralysis, lower motor neuron lesion, psychological distress, psychosocial health, quality of life, social anxiety

Abstract

Background: Bell’s palsy is an acute unilateral facial nerve disorder resulting in partial to complete facial muscle paralysis, significantly affecting communication and social interactions. The condition is associated with viral infections, immune responses, and vascular ischemia. Its prevalence increases with age and is observed more frequently in rural populations. Recovery depends on the severity of the condition and timely intervention. Recent cases have been linked to COVID-19 and its vaccines. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in improving functional outcomes at all stages of the disease.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Bell’s palsy on the psychosocial health of patients in tertiary care hospitals in Peshawar.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in three tertiary care hospitals in Peshawar. A total of 121 patients diagnosed with Bell’s palsy were included using non-probability convenience sampling. The sample size was calculated using the OpenEpi sample size calculator. Data were collected using the House-Brackmann Grading Scale (HBGS) to assess disease severity and the Psychosocial Scale of Facial Appearance (PSFA) to evaluate psychosocial distress. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were calculated, and the chi-square test was applied to determine associations between Bell’s palsy severity and psychosocial distress.

Results: Among the 121 patients, 58.7% experienced moderate psychosocial distress, while 41.3% reported severe psychosocial issues. A statistically significant association was found between Bell’s palsy severity and psychosocial health (p<0.001). Patients with severe facial paralysis had higher rates of emotional distress, social withdrawal, and self-esteem issues. The psychosocial impact was more pronounced among young, unmarried females, who expressed concerns about societal acceptance and future relationships.

Conclusion: Bell’s palsy has a profound impact on psychosocial health, leading to moderate to severe psychological and social distress due to facial disfigurement, loss of facial expressions, and societal reactions. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive patient education and psychological support alongside medical treatment.

Author Biographies

  • Kousar, Iqra National University, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Assistant Professor, Iqra National University, Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Muhammad Tariq, Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Lecturer, Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Zindagi, School of Health Science  Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Lecturer, School of Health Science  Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Veneeza Bangash, Sarhad University of science & Information technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Student, Sarhad University of science & Information technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Anosha Jamal, Physio Plus Clinic, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Clinical Physiotherapist, Physio Plus Clinic, Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Mamoona Waseem, Physio Plus Clinic, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Clinical Physiotherapist, Physio Plus Clinic, Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Aqsa Khan, NCS University system, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Lecturer, NCS University system, Peshawar, Pakistan.

  • Inayat Ullah, Sarhad University of science & Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

    Assistant Professor, Sarhad University of science & Information Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan.

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Published

2025-02-28