Beth, Two years ago, my then 17 yr old daughter had a bout with Bells Palsy. Her face drooped and she couldn't close one eye. She had terrible pain in her ear. Well, it lasted about 10 weeks, but it slowly all returned to normal. Poor kid was so horrified, she refused to leave the house for anything for over a month. Lucky to say she has no residual and is back to her normal self. I don't know if this helps you, but I am sure that just knowing you aren't alone may help some. Be good to yourself, and I hope you have a speedy recovery.