What is a characteristic symptom that could indicate Bell’s palsy?

A characteristic symptom of Bell’s palsy is the presence of facial weakness on one side. Bell's palsy is a condition that results in sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face, caused by inflammation of the facial nerve. This unilateral facial weakness can lead to an inability to fully close the eye, drooping of the mouth, and other asymmetrical facial expressions.

The ability to wrinkle the forehead bilaterally indicates that the nerve function is intact on both sides, which would not be consistent with Bell's palsy. Difficulty hearing is more associated with issues affecting the inner ear or auditory pathways rather than with facial nerve problems. Visual disturbances in bright light could suggest conditions affecting vision or the eyes rather than being a direct symptom of Bell’s palsy. Therefore, the symptom of facial weakness on one side is the hallmark sign that aligns with the diagnosis of Bell’s palsy.