Evidence checklist
Bell's Palsy (Facial Nerve Paralysis)
Evidence strength
Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.
Specialist opinion
Highest value0 of 4 collectedA neurologist's or otolaryngologist's examination using the House-Brackmann grading scale to document facial weakness severity from Grade I (normal) to Grade VI (complete paralysis).
Not marked
Medical opinion connecting Bell's palsy to in-service cold/wet exposure, viral infection during service, or stress-related immune suppression during deployment.
Not marked
Electrodiagnostic testing measuring facial nerve degeneration percentage and assessing prognosis. Useful for documenting severity and incomplete recovery.
Not marked
MRI showing gadolinium enhancement of the facial nerve at the geniculate ganglion, confirming Bell's palsy and ruling out structural causes.
Not marked
Treatment records
0 of 1 collectedRecords of prednisone and antiviral treatment, physical therapy for facial retraining, and records of eye complications (exposure keratopathy) from incomplete eye closure.
Not marked
Lay statements
0 of 2 collectedA written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.
Not marked
Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.
Not marked
Benefits questionnaire
0 of 1 collectedVA standardized form for DC 8207 (facial nerve) capturing the degree of facial paralysis, synkinesis, and functional impact.
Not marked
Service records
0 of 1 collectedMilitary medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.
Not marked
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