2nd May 2024

A 45-year-old woman presents with a sudden onset of right-sided facial weakness.

A 45-year-old woman presents with a sudden onset of right-sided facial weakness. She noticed difficulty closing her right eye and drooping of the right side of her mouth this morning. She has no previous medical history and is not on any medication. On examination, there is complete paralysis of the right side of her face including the forehead. She has no rash or other neurological symptoms. Her general physical examination is unremarkable.

Which is the most appropriate initial management?