Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is a rare condition that occurs when the shingles virus affects the facial nerve near one of your ears. This causes facial paralysis and hearing loss, which is often temporary. The condition primarily affects adults. The shingles virus usually presents with a painful blotchy rash that appears on one side of the body or head.

Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

  • Ear pain
  • Hearing loss
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
  • Difficulty closing one eye

Cause of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

The condition is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox and shingles. The virus can remain dormant for years in a person who had chickenpox as a child.

Treatment for Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

  • Steroids
  • Antiviral medication

FAQs

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is usually temporary, but in rare cases, it can become permanent.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is triggered by the same virus that causes chickenpox and shingles. The virus can lie dormant in the body for years after a person has had chickenpox as a child.

With treatment, recovery typically occurs within a few weeks.