Because of the news surrounding Justin Bieber’s condition, netizens ignited the curiosity surrounding the rare Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. The singer’s revelation sparked a new discussion about the rare disease. Furthermore, most people often mistake it for Bell’s palsy because of its facial paralysis symptom.
If someone you know encounters this condition, we urge you to help them get immediate treatment. Unlike other forms of paralysis can’t compare to the Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.
In this article, you’ll read:
- Determining the Symptoms of the Rare Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
- Triggers of the Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
- Justin Bieber Demonstrates the Effect of His Rare Condition
Determining the Symptoms of the Rare Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is the second most common cause of atraumatic peripheral facial paralysis. It is a rare neurological disorder characterised by paralysis of the facial nerve (facial palsy) and a rash affecting the ear or mouth.
It comes after the well-known condition Bell’s Palsy, but slightly more severe. Aside from that, it only occurs in around five in 100,000 people.
People who have Ramsay Hunt Syndrome are most likely to experience ear abnormalities. This includes ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.
Meanwhile. a shingles virus reactivation in the face causes the rare condition. People who experienced chickenpox may also get affected by this rare syndrome.
The Alarming Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Symptoms
The cause of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome by times of high stress or immunosuppression. It could also be because of immunosuppressant drugs or other underlying conditions.
However, remember that its symptoms vary from case to case. Affected individuals commonly experience paralysis (palsy) of the facial nerve and a rash affecting the ear.
The two symptoms do not always occur simultaneously. It is because, in most cases, only one side of the face is affected (unilateral).
The facial paralysis symptom occurs after a certain brain nerve near the ear gets affected. In relation to this, the nerve tends to expand when it becomes inflamed. However, the infected person cannot trigger movement in the affected area.
Furthermore, hearing loss, severe vertigo and rashes or blisters appear on the ear or cheek. The infected may also experience headaches and vomiting.
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Triggers of the Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
The varicella-zoster virus works as the main trigger for this rare facial paralysis condition. It also causes common diseases like chickenpox and shingles.
The virus can remain dormant for decades in a person who had had chickenpox when they were just kids. Concerning this, reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus results in shingles, in some cases, developing into the said condition. Unfortunately, the reason behind the virus reactivation remains unknown.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Treatments to Remember
The treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome usually involves antiviral medications. It includes acyclovir or famciclovir, in conjunction with corticosteroids, like prednisone.
Experts believe that beginning antiviral treatment within three days of onset appears to have the most significant benefits as a prompt diagnosis. The management seems to improve outcomes as well.
Heartbreakingly, some degree of facial paralysis and hearing loss may become permanent in some cases, despite therapy.
Another treatment varies depending on the specific symptoms of an individual. People who have this condition need to take special care to prevent corneal injury.
Justin Bieber Demonstrates the Effect of His Rare Condition
The 28-year-old world-renowned Canadian singer, Justin Bieber, revealed that he was diagnosed with a rare facial paralysis condition. Bieber eventually shares his diagnosis in a video on his Instagram account, revealing the neurological disorder’s physical effects.
View this post on Instagram
“Hey, everyone. Justin here. I wanted to update you guys on what’s been going on,” Bieber said.
“Obviously, as you can probably see from my face, I have this syndrome called Ramsay Hunt syndrome,” he added.
The singer then explains how a virus triggers the condition to attack an ear nerve and eventual facial paralysis. He also shows how he could not control the other side of his face. Justin cannot blink his other eye; a side of his face cannot smile; his other nostril will not move.
“There is full paralysis in this side of my face,” he said.
Justin Bieber Postponed His Ongoing Schedule
Following his revelation, the singer decides to postpone his concert tour. He said that he would be postponing a few shows due to his ongoing treatment.
He then addressed his fans who were “frustrated” about the postponement of Justin Bieber’s upcoming shows.
“I’m just physically, obviously not capable of doing them,” Bieber explained. “This is pretty serious, as you can see. I wish this wasn’t the case, but obviously, my body is telling me I got to slow down, and I hope you guys understand.”
However, Justin Bieber still shows his gratitude to his fans for their patience as he recovers.
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