Ramsay Hunt syndrome, also known as herpes zoster oticus, is a neurological disorder caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox and shingles. It occurs when the virus affects the facial nerve near the ear, leading to a painful rash on the ear, face, mouth, or tongue, and other symptoms.

Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can include facial paralysis or weakness, hearing loss, dizziness or vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and difficulty with taste or swallowing. In addition, the rash associated with Ramsay Hunt syndrome can be painful and often appears in or around the ear.

Treatment for Ramsay Hunt syndrome may include antiviral medications, which can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as corticosteroids, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Pain relievers and other medications may also be used to manage symptoms.

Complications of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can include permanent facial weakness or paralysis, hearing loss, or persistent vertigo or dizziness. In some cases, physical therapy or other rehabilitation may be necessary to help regain function and manage symptoms.

Prevention of Ramsay Hunt syndrome involves getting vaccinated against chickenpox and shingles, which can reduce the risk of developing the virus that causes Ramsay Hunt syndrome. If you experience symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, it is important to seek medical attention right away to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome occurs in people who've had chickenpox. Once you recover from chickenpox, the virus stays in your body — sometimes reactivating in later years to cause shingles, a painful rash with fluid-filled blisters.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a shingles outbreak that affects the facial nerve near one of your ears. It can also causes one-sided facial paralysis and hearing loss.

Children are now routinely vaccinated against chickenpox, which greatly reduces the chances of becoming infected with the chickenpox virus. A shingles vaccine for people age 50 or older also is recommended.

Prompt treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can ease pain and decrease the risk of long-term complications. Medications may include:

• Antiviral drugs. Medications such as acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir) or valacyclovir (Valtrex) often help combat the chickenpox virus.
• Corticosteroids. A short regimen of high-dose prednisone appears to boost the effect of antiviral drugs in Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
• Anti-anxiety medications. Drugs such as diazepam (Valium) can help relieve vertigo.
• Pain relievers. The pain associated with Ramsay Hunt syndrome can be severe. Prescription pain medications may be needed.