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I couldn’t speak for a month: Radio presenter Annitah Raey on Bell’s Palsy

By Elizabeth Ngigi September 17th, 2023 2 min read

Popular media personality Annitah Raey has bravely shared her struggle with Bell’s Palsy, a medical condition that temporarily robbed her of her voice for a month.

The talented radio personality first revealed her health ordeal in August 2023 when she explained her absence from social media platforms to her concerned fans.

Taking to her X page, Annitah provided her followers with an update on her condition, sharing personal details about her journey to recovery.

“In the beginning of July, I fell ill and had no idea what Bell’s Palsy was. My mouth went sideways, making it impossible to eat or drink. I lost my voice and couldn’t speak for a whole month. The pain was excruciating. Three months down the line, I am grateful to be alive and getting better,” she disclosed.

Bell’s Palsy is a medical condition characterized by the weakening of one-half of the facial muscles, resulting in a drooping effect on the affected side of the face.

Although the exact cause of Bell’s Palsy remains uncertain, medical experts believe it may be linked to swelling and inflammation of the facial nerve responsible for controlling the muscles on one side of the face.

It can also be triggered by an immune reaction following a viral infection.

Typical symptoms of Bell’s Palsy include sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, along with a drooping eyebrow and mouth.

Fortunately, the majority of individuals affected by this condition experience a gradual improvement in symptoms within a few weeks, with complete recovery typically occurring within six months.

Annitah’s announcement of her health battle elicited an outpouring of support and well-wishes from her dedicated fans, who continue to send messages of quick recovery and encouragement.

Dr. Hussein Hassan: “Wishing you a speedy recovery, @AnnitahRaey. Inshallah, you will be fine. Are you keeping up with your physiotherapy?”

Sharon Jebitok: “Life and our health are unpredictable. It’s reassuring to hear that you’re on the mend and feeling grateful.”

Silantoi x: “I’m truly sorry to hear about this. I hope your recovery is swift and without complications.”

Nyanchoka: “I empathize deeply. Bell’s Palsy hit me twice with a decade between occurrences. I know the challenges of not being able to blink or close one eye, and the drooling. Wishing you a quick recovery.”

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