Ramsay Hunt syndrome, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Tests

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. In this condition, the varicella-zoster virus attacks a nerve in the head as a result painful rash appears on the mouth or on the face, or around the Ears. This disease is rarely found in children but can be serious for those who have a weak immune system. This syndrome was first described in 1907 by an American neurologist James Ramsay Hunt.

Causes of Ramsay Hunt syndrome

The Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is a viral disease that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, Same virus also causes shingles (viral infection that causes a painful rash) and chickenpox (itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters). In this syndromic condition, the virus attacks the facial nerve near the inner ear. This results in enlargement and irritation of the nerve. This syndrome to a large extent affects adults rarely found in children. 

 Symptoms 

1 Intense Pain in the Ear.

2 Painful rash on the roof of the mouth, tongue, earlobe, ear canal, and eardrum. 

3 Moving sensation of the things.

4 Hearing loss.

5 Problem of the closing eye.

5 Paralysis on one side of the face,  facial droop, making fine movements and expressions of the face. 

Treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome

Antiviral medicines, such as valacyclovir or acyclovir, and Strong anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone are usually given. If the pain continues even with Antiviral medicines and anti-inflammatory drugs then sometimes strong painkillers are also given.

If the patient feels eye-closing problems then the patient should wear an eye patch to prevent corneal abrasion and other injuries to the eye. To prevent the eye from drying out some people may use synthetic tears during the day and a special eye lubricant at night. If there is dizziness in the patient then the experts can advise other medicines. 

Tests and Exams of Ramsay Hunt syndrome

This syndrome or disorder can be diagnosed by looking for blister-like rash and signs of weakness in facial morphology. Ramsay Hunt syndrome may be detected by the following tests.

1 By determining the amount of harm to the facial nerve.

2 Magnetic resonance imaging of the head.

3 Lumbar puncture in rare cases.

4 Electromyography.

5 Through Blood tests for the varicella-zoster virus. 

Possible problems in Ramsay Hunt syndrome patients include...

1 Changes in the morphology of the face. 

2 Loss of vision due to damage to the eye. 

3 Improper facial movement.

4 Abnormal reactions like smiling cause the eye to close.

5 Severe pain. 

In rare cases virus can reach other nerves, or even the spinal cord and brain. If it happens, then this will cause, Headaches, Confusion, Nerve pain, Limb weakness, and Drowsiness. 

When to Contact a doctor? 

Reach out to a health professional if you have a rash on your face if you lose movement in your face and facial weakness. 

Prevention 

There is no known cure for Ramsay Hunt syndrome, but medical treatment immediately after the onset of symptoms can improve recovery.