Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

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What is a common cause of Bell's palsy?

Herpes simplex virus

Bell's palsy is primarily associated with the activation of the herpes simplex virus, which can lead to inflammation of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This condition often results in sudden, unilateral facial weakness or paralysis, making the identification of this viral link crucial in understanding its pathophysiology.

While other factors such as trauma, cerebrovascular accidents, and electrical injuries can contribute to facial nerve dysfunction or paralysis, they are not as directly related to the most common etiology of Bell's palsy. The herpes simplex virus is widely recognized in clinical settings as a primary instigator, as it can reside in a dormant state within the body and reactivate, triggering the symptoms characteristic of Bell's palsy. This understanding underscores the importance of recognizing viral causes in peripheral neurological conditions.

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Electrical injury

Cerebrovascular accident

Trauma to the face

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