Famous Canadian singer Justin Bieber recently took to Instagram to explain why he had been forced to postpone some of his recent tour dates.
The 28-year-old artist revealed he had been diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, leaving "the right side of his paralyzed," A report from The Sun specified.
In a short video he posted on his social media account, Bieber said, "As you can probably see by my face," he has this syndrome known as Ramsay Hunt.
The hitmaker also revealed the illness had affected a nerve in his ear that caused the paralysis. Pointing to his right eye, he showed it was not blinking.
Continuing to describe his condition, the singer also said his "nostril will not move," and therefore, there is full paralysis on this side of his face.
What is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
Mayo Clinic describes Ramsay Hunt Syndrome or herpes zoster oticus as an illness that occurs when a shingles outbreak affects the facial nerve close to one of the ears.
On top of the painful shingles rash, Ramsay Hunt syndrome can lead to facial paralysis and loss of hearing in the affected ear.
This condition is caused by the same virus that's causing chickenpox. After the latter-mentioned condition clears up, the virus remains in the nerves. Years later, it may reactivate, which can impact the facial nerves when it does.
According to medical experts, the prompt treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can lessen the risk of complications which can comprise permanent facial muscle weakness and deafness.
Signs and Symptoms
There are two main signs and symptoms of this condition. One is the appearance of a painful red rash with fluid-filled blisters on, in, and around one side of the ear. The other is paralysis or facial weakness on the same side as the affected ear.
Typically, facial paralysis and rash take place at the same time. At times, one can occur before the other. Frequently, the rash never appears at all.
Other signs and symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome include ear pain, ringing in the ears or tinnitus, hearing loss, difficulty closing one eye, loss of taste, vertigo, and dry mouth and eyes, among others.
It is advisable to call the doctor if facial paralysis or shingles rash on the face is experienced. Treatment that begins within three days of the onset of the signs and symptoms may help prevent long-term complications.
Causes and Risk Factors of the Syndrome
Ramsay Hunt syndrome occurs in those who have had chickenpox. Once they recover from the disease, the virus remains in the body, at times reactivating in later years to cause shingles,
The condition can occur in any individual who has had chicken pox. It is more typical in older adults, usually affecting those over 60 years old, and a rare condition in children.
Ramsay Hunt is an illness that's not contagious. Nonetheless, reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus can cause chickenpox in individuals who have not had chicken before or been vaccinated for it. The infection can be severe for individuals who have immune system problems.
Treatment and Prevention
According to an iNews report, strong anti-inflammatory drugs, including steroids like prednisone, are typically given to the patient. More so, antiviral medicines like acyclovir or valacyclovir may be given, as well.
Sometimes, strong painkillers are needed, too, if the pain continues even with steroids. Whereas the face is particularly weak, medical experts advise wearing an eye patch to prevent injury to the cornea, also known as corneal abrasion, and other impairment to the eye if it does not close completely.
Some patients may apply a special eye lubricant at night and artificial tears during the day to prevent drying out of the eye.
Bieber has told fans that he is using this period for rest so he can continue to do what he was "born to do so."
A report about Bieber's facial paralysis is shown on Fox 11 Los Angeles's YouTube video below:
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