Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a consequence of the chickenpox virus. It comprises a set of symptoms and signs that appear due to the fact that this viral agent is capable of affecting certain nerves. Specifically, to the facial nerve.
The facial nerve contains motor and sensory fibers. It innervates different parts of the face, so it helps us with gestures, such as those used to eat and speak.
Ramsay Hunt syndrome can cause facial paralysis and hearing loss in the same side ear. It is a fairly frequent entity. Therefore, we explain everything you need to know.
What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome?
Ramsay Hunt syndrome is one of the affectations that the varicella-zoster virus can produce. This particle belongs to the herpesvirus family.
According to an article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, Ramsay Hunt syndrome consists of a paralysis of the facial nerve. In addition, it is usually accompanied by eruptions with vesicles on the pinna or even inside the mouth.
It is the second most frequent cause of paralysis of the facial nerve at the peripheral level. In fact, it represents 7% of all of them. This is because varicella-zoster virus infection is very common in the general population.
Another study published in SEMERGEN Family Medicine affirms that the clinical presentation is very varied. That is why it is usually classified into 4 stages based on severity. The full form, or rather the first one that was described, includes the following signs:
General infectious syndrome, with malaise, fatigue and pain.
Skin rash and hearing impairment.
Affectation of taste sensations.
Peripheral facial paralysis.
Causes of Ramsay Hunt syndrome
The cause of Ramsay Hunt syndrome is the varicella-zoster virus. It appears in people who have already had chickenpox. This is because this virus is able to remain latent in the body. Specifically, it tends to lodge in nerve tissues.
When the virus reactivates it gives rise to symptoms. As an article in the Department of Health states , it is usually transmitted from person to person by touching the blisters of someone infected at that time.
However, it can also travel through the air by droplets that are expelled by coughing or sneezing. Even from contaminated objects. It is essential to have been infected by this virus in order to develop Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
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