What to know about Bell's palsy, the facial paralysis affecting Joel Embiid

Philadelphia 76ers All-Star center Joel Embiid has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy. A facial nerve gets inflamed or injured and suddenly muscles on one side of the face become weak or paralyzed. It can distort expression or keep an eyelid from closing. The cause isn't known although it's linked to factors including high blood pressure, diabetes, certain viral infections and autoimmune disorders. Treatments often consist of steroid medications to fight inflammation and keeping eyes moist and protected. Fortunately most people recover within about six months.