Health - Wellness
Justin Bieber's Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Diagnosis Explained
By ANNE TAYLOR
Pop star Justin Bieber shared on Instagram that he has been diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, a rare condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Ramsay Hunt results in a rash, blisters, facial paralysis, and in some cases, hearing loss or vertigo.
After a person has chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus lies dormant in the nerve cells and may never become active again, but in some cases, the virus can reactivate years later and cause shingles. Ramsay Hunt Syndrome occurs when shingles affect a facial nerve near the ear; it is not contagious and most common in people over 50.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is usually treated with an antiviral medication, and sometimes doctors will prescribe steroids to help reduce inflammation. Facial exercises also help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the face, and an eye patch or sunglasses is recommended for patients who can’t fully close their eyes.