01
Look in the mirror at rest and try to smile, raise eyebrows, and close both eyes.
02
Asymmetry — drooping cheek, flattened forehead, eye that won't fully close — suggests facial palsy.
03
Lyme is one of the most common causes of bilateral facial palsy in endemic areas.
04
Get evaluated the same day; clinicians will rule out stroke first, then treat for Lyme.
05
Treatment is oral doxycycline 14-21 days; recovery of nerve function usually takes weeks to months.
06
Tape the affected eye closed at night and use lubricating drops by day to prevent corneal injury.