Anyone who has had chicken pox is susceptible to acquiring shingles later in life. Shingles is a painful skin and nerve condition that results in blisters and rashes on one side of the body. A rare complication of shingles is Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which impacts the facial nerve and can cause facial paralysis. Joshua D. Rosenberg, MD, is an expert in treating various forms of facial paralysis, including Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
What is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
Those that have had chicken pox have been exposed to the varicella zoster virus. While the symptoms of chicken pox eventually go away, the varicella virus can remain dormant in the body. If triggered, it can cause shingles and in rare cases, Ramsay Hunt syndrome. In this circumstance, the virus causes an inflammation of the facial nerve that can cause facial paralysis. Indicators of Ramsay Hunt syndrome include the known symptoms of shingles, as well as a painful rash near one of the ears and facial paralysis. It is vital to seek medical treatment to fight the virus and reduce the chance of further complications.
On top of anti-viral medications and other treatments for Ramsay Hunt syndrome, patients with this disorder may want treatment for facial paralysis. Dr. Rosenberg has extensive experience treating various forms of facial paralysis and can offer options to reduce the facial aesthetic and functional symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome. One effective option is Botox injections that can relax muscles to achieve a more balanced appearance to the face while recovering from this viral infection.
If you have any symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, you should seek medical attention right away. If you are interested in combatting the facial paralysis symptoms of this disorder, contact Dr. Rosenberg at his office in NYC or Upper East Side to schedule a consultation.
