World-renowned 28-year-old singer Justin Bieber announced that he has Ramsay hunt syndrome. Ramsay hunt syndrome is reminiscent of shingles and facial paralysis. This syndrome affects some nerve cells, generally the nerves in the face. This can cause symptoms such as facial paralysis. In Ramsay hunt syndrome; pain in the ear, head rotation, nausea and especially decreased auditory sensitivity have been observed.
What is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
Ramsay hunt syndrome is somewhat similar to shingles and facial paralysis. However, the virus called varicella-zoster, which is in the category of herpes simplex virus , which also affects chickenpox and shingles, manifests itself in Ramsay hunt disease with a high pain in the ear. This is how the germ first manifests itself in the ear. Generally, this disease is seen between the ages of 30 and 50. The germ affects key nerve cells, especially the nerve cells in the face. Therefore, symptoms such as facial paralysis are observed. It occurs especially around the ear or inside the ear. Pain in the ear, constant tinnitus, constant dizziness and severe pain in the head cause sensory loss.
What are the Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
InRamsay hunt syndrome, the person has difficulty closing the eye on the paralyzed part of the face, the person's mouth and eyes begin to dry. Mouth taste may deteriorate. The person may also have difficulty moving the mouth part. For example, he/she consumes liquids but does not keep them in his/her mouth, they spill and he/she cannot even consume solid food. some of the symptoms are as follows;
- Extreme weakness and fatigue.
- Pain in the person's ear
- Nausea, skin flaking, auditory impairment
- Differences in taste or decreased taste sensation
- Slippage or similar problems in the facial area
If one or all of these symptoms occur, it may be necessary to visit a specialist immediately. If patients are not intervened in time, this paralysis of the face can be permanent.
How is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Treated?
The most ideal treatment methods for Ramsay hunt syndrome may be medications that are good for the virus germ.
In addition, a personalized treatment method can be applied according to the individual symptoms observed in the patient. Anti-inflammatory medications or medications that prevent seizures can help minimize the pain associated with ramsay hunt syndrome. Some medications may help to reduce symptoms similar to vertigo, such as nausea or dizziness. Eye drops or similar liquid substances may help prevent corneal damage.