Carnie Wilson has Bell's Palsy, she has announced last week, shocking fans. Wilson did manage to put on a brave face in making the announcement about the diagnosis given to her, but knows she now has a health challenge ahead.

Bell's Palsy is a relatively rare nerve disorder that can cause paralysis of muscles in the face of sufferers.

The actress and singer made the announcement to her fans via social media site Twitter last week, posting: "Just wanted you all 2 know that I have Bell's Palsy on lf side of face right now. Scary, unfortunate, but it goes away. A challenge! Love u."

Fans responded in overwhelming fashion, offering their support and prayers for the actress.

"Praying for you, mama! Sending love & positive thoughts your way!" one fan wrote on the singer's Twitter.

Another posted, “Thoughts and prayers are with you. Stay strong and positive and you’ll get through this.”

Wilson also explained to fans that she was treating her condition with acupuncture: "Who believes in Acupuncture? I'm treating my Bell's Palsy with it. IT'S WORKING."

She also thanked fans for their messages of support: "Grateful and hopeful today. Your well wishes make me happy. Thank you all!!!"

Symptoms of Bell's Palsy commence with cold-like issues, but then the side-affects get more intense. The worst of it happens in the first few days, according to PubMed Health.

Paralysis usually only occurs in half of the face but can lead to difficulty with eating.

Treatment is usually unnecessary, and the symptoms typically resolve themselves, although it can take anywhere from a week to over a month to build back muscle strength in the face and make a full recovery.