Actor Sylvester Stallone, famous for his roles as "Rocky Balboa" and "John Rambo", was born with Bell's palsy.  




Before analyzing Sylvester Stallone's condition, first of all: "What is exactly "Bell's palsy?"

"Bell’s palsy" is a condition where the nerve that moves the muscles of the face becomes inflamed and swollen.  The swelling causes pressure on the nerve and prevents it from working.  There are many assumptions for the causes of Bell’s palsy, but the most accepted cause is that it is a secondary result of a herpes simplex virus.

As for the diagnosis of the disease, Bell’s palsy is only diagnosed if the doctor cannot identify another cause of sudden facial paralysis.  Some of the causes of facial paralysis may be serious, including cancer, so it is important that all patients with new facial paralysis be examined by a qualified physician, ENT, neurologist or facial plastic surgeon that specializes in facial paralysis.

People typically notice facial paralysis while brushing their teeth. This can be a terrifying experience, but you should have in mind that most people will fully recover.

It has to be noted that Bell’s palsy is relatively uncommon, as it affects approximately 40,000 people in the United States per year.  Both men and women have an equal chance of having Bell’s palsy.  It is more rare in patients under 15 and more common in people older than 60.

Sylvester Stallone's Bell's palsy was caused by birth complications. As a result of Bell's palsy Stallone, 65, experiences slurred speech and facial distortion. While growing up the disorder caused Stallone adversity, but yet as an adult Bell's palsy helped make Sylvester memorable. For instance, take the now legendary movie moment where Stallone as Rocky Balboa shouts: "Yo Adrian, I did it!" Would the line have been as memorable with somebody else? No way!

Conclusion: Stallone has turned a disadvantage into an advantage! Thumbs up!




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