I got this from the UK Bells Palsy site. It is awesome and thought I would pass it on..... Michelle
Hi Everybody,
Here is a compilation of all the great suggestions that EVERYONE has made with regard to helping cope with BP.
The use of lots of preservative free artificial tears during the day and a thicker eye gel at night to keep your eye protected and moist.
Heat - A wheat bag or a clean sock filled with uncooked rice heated in the microwave or a plug in heating pad... not too hot though.
A facial steamer for relaxation.
Swimming goggles to keep the soap out of your eye in the shower.
Soft foods... scrambled eggs, pasta, yogurt and a large selection of soups... not to mention... ice cream... to name a few.
A good supply of straws.
For those with mild pain associated with thier BP Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Paracetemol) OR Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nurofen) or whatever over the counter pain medication your doctor recommends for you.
For those who suffer from more severe pain it is best to talk to your doctor about gettting a prescription medication that is right for you. Lyrica (pregbalin) and Neurontin (gabapentin) have both been used with success for BP patients.
A contact bandage lens through your opthamologist to protect your eye.
Facial massage with your facial cleanser and warm water in circular motions.
Ear plugs for loud places.
Motorcyclist sunglasses with foam to block light completely and trap moisture.
Wrap around sport sunglasses to minimize light getting in the sides.
When your eye is very tired; holding down the lid with the back of a clean finger to offer temporary relief.
When it's hard to pronounce your words properly; holding up the corner of your mouth to help get the words out.
Breathe Right nasal strips to help keep your nasal passage open at night.
Neck Pillow for long car rides.
Extra preservative free eye drops for plane rides.
Fruit smoothies through a straw.
Paper or micropore tape to tape your eye shut at night.
For those with significant movement back in thier faces that are doing an exercise routine - an infra-red lamp for heat - making sure the light does not shine in your eyes - for a few minutes before you exercise.
Blowing your lips out like a horse a few times as a relaxation technique.
A relaxing bath with lavender oil... or whatever herb calms you down.
A good book.
Your favourite music.
A funny movie.
Being a member of this forum.
Taking a moment to stop and remember that sometimes our bodies send us a message to slow things down, take it easy and give ourselves some time to heal.
Continued good health and healing to all,
