Which cranial nerve is most commonly affected in cases of Bell's Palsy?

Bell's Palsy primarily affects the facial nerve, which is cranial nerve VII. This condition is characterized by sudden, unilateral weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles, often accompanied by other symptoms such as alteration in taste, lacrimation, and auditory sensitivity. The exact cause of Bell's Palsy is still not fully understood, but it is often believed to be related to viral infections that lead to inflammation in the facial nerve.

Cranial nerve VII is responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression, and when it is compromised, a person may experience drooping on one side of the face, difficulty in closing the eye, and other facial asymmetries. The recognition of cranial nerve VII as the most commonly affected nerve in Bell's Palsy is important for diagnosis and management, as other cranial nerves do not typically manifest the same presentation.