Israeli Media Figure Efi Gilad Reveals Bell's Palsy Diagnosis
Israeli media figure Efi Gilad revealed he is battling Bell's palsy, joining a long list of celebrities like Michal Ansky, Anna Zak, and Angelina Jolie who have faced the sudden facial paralysis condition.
Prominent Israeli media figure Efi Gilad recently revealed that he was diagnosed with Bell's palsy, a condition causing sudden weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles on one side. Gilad shared that he woke up feeling unusual and noticed facial paralysis in the mirror. After starting medication, he addressed his condition with humor, comparing it to a similar experience faced by culinary figure Michal Ansky.
Ansky is far from the only public figure to confront the syndrome. Over the years, numerous celebrities in Israel and globally have opened up about their battles with Bell's palsy, which ranges from brief recoveries to prolonged struggles lasting months or years. In April 2024, diet guru Hali Maman was diagnosed with the condition, later describing how her eyes continuously watered and chewing became difficult. Maman admitted she isolated herself at home for weeks out of fear of public reaction, eventually reaching out to Ansky for guidance.
The Impact on Celebrities and Public Figures
Michal Ansky famously disclosed her diagnosis in April 2019 after waking up with facial paralysis during a return flight to Israel. Upon landing, she was taken to Ichilov Hospital, where doctors confirmed Bell's palsy. Ansky spoke candidly about the emotional toll, wondering who she was without her smile, speech, or sense of taste. Unlike cases that resolve quickly, Ansky faced long-term functional challenges.
Pop star and social media icon Anna Zak similarly vanished from the spotlight in November 2020, revealing months later that she was suffering from Bell's palsy. Zak described waking up with facial numbness and a drooping lip, leading to severe anxiety over her career in modeling and singing. International stars including Angelina Jolie, who credited acupuncture for her full recovery after a 2016 diagnosis, and actor George Clooney, who faced the condition at age 14, have also shared their experiences.
Medical Understanding and Treatment
Dr. Dikla Matzliach, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at Barzilai Medical Center, explained that primary treatment relies on steroids and must begin as early as possible. She emphasized that treatment effectiveness is highest when initiated within 72 hours of symptom onset. While most patients improve within weeks or months, some experience long-term facial asymmetry or involuntary movements.
Medical experts stress that sudden facial paralysis can also indicate a stroke or other serious medical emergencies, requiring immediate professional evaluation.
