Cold Weather as a Risk Factor for Bell’s Palsy: A Cross-Sectional Study from Northern Sindh, Pakistan

Background: Bell’s palsy is the most common form of acute peripheral facial nerve paralysis, yet its etiology remains largely idiopathic. Several studies have hypothesized a link between seasonal environmental factors—particularly cold weather—and increased incidence, but regional data from South Asia, particularly Pakistan, remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between cold weather and the incidence of Bell’s palsy in a semi-urban Pakistani population, examining seasonal variation and demographic correlates to inform clinical and public health awareness. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among patients presenting with Bell’s palsy at the Neurology Outpatient Department of Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College, Larkana, during January–December 2022. A total of 186 patients were recruited using purposive sampling, following defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 27. Categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages, and seasonal associations were tested using chi-square analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, and informed consent was secured in line with the Declaration of Helsinki. Results: The incidence of Bell’s palsy peaked in December (n = 53, 28.4%) and February (n = 35, 18.8%), showing significant seasonal variation (χ² = 34.21, p < 0.001). Winter months accounted for 55.3% of all cases. The most affected demographic group was males aged 31–40 years. Conclusion: Cold weather appears to be a significant environmental factor associated with increased Bell’s palsy incidence. These findings have clinical relevance for anticipatory care, early diagnosis, and seasonally informed health planning in similar climatic regions.