Symptom 9. Decreased Facial Expressiveness: The Silent Robbery
Imagine being unable to express joy, sadness, surprise, or anger through facial expressions. This frightening reality is often experienced by people with Progressive Bulbar Palsy due to a symptom known as hypomimia or decreased facial expressiveness.
At the onset, these changes may be subtle, barely noticeable. A family member or close friend might comment that the person seems less expressive or emotive than usual. The individual might also find it challenging to perform specific facial movements, like frowning, smiling, or puckering the lips.
As PBP advances, this symptom becomes more evident. The face can take on a mask-like appearance, with a reduction in blinking and fewer movements overall. The eyebrows may remain still, even when the person is attempting to raise them in surprise or furrow them in concentration.
This symptom isn’t simply cosmetic. A reduced ability to express oneself facially can hinder communication and lead to misunderstandings. It can make social situations challenging and can contribute to feelings of isolation or frustration. Over time, this can significantly impact the individual’s mental wellbeing.(9)
