Table of contents:
- Definition
- What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- How common is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- Signs & symptoms
- What are the signs and symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- When should I see a doctor?
- Cause
- What causes Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- Risk factors
- What increases my risk for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- Drugs & Medicines
- What are my treatment options for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- What are the usual tests for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
- Home remedies
- What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Definition
What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a group of symptoms that result from a complication of a viral infection called shingles or shingles. Shingles causes pain and a red rash that blisters. Apart from that, Ramsay Hunt syndrome can also cause paralysis of the facial muscles and hearing loss in the infected ear.
Other names for this syndrome are zoster geniculate, herpes zoster oticus, and herpes geniculate gnaglionitis. Prompt treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can reduce the risk of complications that can lead to facial muscle weakness and permanent hearing loss.
How common is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Ramsay Hunt syndrome is rare in children but occurs frequently in the elderly, both boys and girls. You can minimize the occurrence of this disease by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for more information.
Signs & symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
A common symptom of Ramsay Hunt syndrome is small blisters that occur in and around the ear, on the tympanic membrane of the ear, and along the side of the mouth.
There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.
When should I see a doctor?
Contact your doctor if these symptoms occur:
- Rash around your ears
- Hearing loss
- Facial paralysis on one side
- Facial pain with headache
Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.
Cause
What causes Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
The cause is the same virus that causes chickenpox (varicella zoster). This virus is believed to infect the facial nerve which is located near the inner ear. This virus reactivates when the immune system weakens and causes shingles or shingles. If the infection occurs in the area near the ear, it can cause Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
Risk factors
What increases my risk for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Certain factors that increase your risk of developing Ramsay Hunt syndrome include:
- Age: if older than 60 years
- Anyone who has never had chickenpox or had a vaccination against smallpox
- Anyone with a weakened immune system
Having no risk factors doesn't mean you can't get this disease. These factors are for reference only. You should consult your doctor for more details
Drugs & Medicines
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What are my treatment options for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Treatment with antiviral drugs (such as acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir) can help the skin heal faster and reduce the pain associated with shingles. The doctor will prescribe pain medication to relieve rash and pain that arises after the rash goes away, known as post herpetic neuralgia.
Post herpetic neuralgia is a disturbing effect in some people who have shingles and Ramsay Hunt syndrome. After the rash goes away, the pain can last for 6 months or maybe even longer. Gabapentin or pregabalin can be given for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia. Prednisone, given at the onset of herpes zoster, can in some cases prevent postherpetic neuralgia.
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can also help relieve pain. Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe a short-term use of narcotic pain medication for severe pain that cannot be relieved by other medications.
What are the usual tests for Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Your doctor can make a diagnosis based on your medical history and physical examination. Sometimes, the doctor will peel off the top of the blister and take a small amount of tissue underneath it. This sampling (called a Tzanck smear) will be sent for examination. Viral culture can also be done. Viral culture is done by isolating the virus and letting it grow on a special dish.
An MRI scan may be needed to find out if there are other disorders.
Home remedies
What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with Ramsay Hunt syndrome:
- Keep the affected area clean
- Use a cool wet compress on the rash to relieve pain
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.)
- Use eye drops throughout the day if your eyes become dry
- At night, apply eye ointment and close your eyes or put on an eye patch
If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.
