Ramsay Hunt syndrome, also known as herpes zoster oticus, is a rare yet severe neurological disorder characterized by facial paralysis. Justin Bieber took to Instagram on Friday to reveal he's currently suffering from this condition.
Bieber had recently canceled various concerts without explanation and now fans know the reason. Like, Ramsay Hunt syndrome is caused by a virus that affects the facial nerve near one of the ears.
Justin Bieber reveals shocking face paralysis diagnosis to his fans through InstagramADVERTISEMENT
Besides facial paralysis, Ramsay Hunt syndrome can cause a painful shingles rash and hearing loss in the affected ear. The virus which causes the rare disorder also produces chickenpox and could reactivate years later, possibly affecting the facial nerves.
The two main symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome are: a painful red rash with fluid-filled blisters on, in or around one ear, and facial weakness on the same side of the affected ear. These two symptoms typically occur at the same time but one can happen before the other and the rash is at times not present at all.
Other symptoms include:
- Dry mouth
- Dry eyes
- Ear pain
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in ears (tinnitus)
- Vertigo
- Loss of taste
- Difficulty closing one eye
