DEAR DR. GOTT: I’ve been diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome. I’ve been treated with prednisone and antiviral drugs. I ask every doctor I’ve seen, “What can I do to be proactive?” The answer is always, “Nothing, only time.” I understand that, but what can I do to hasten healing? Massage, physical therapy, acupuncture, anything? Each doctor says I can do whatever I want but nothing is going to help. Isn’t there anything I can do?
DEAR READER: Ramsay Hunt syndrome occurs when the facial nerve to one of the ears becomes infected by the shingles/chickenpox virus.
The primary symptoms are a painful red rash with blisters in, on and around one ear associated with facial weakness or paralysis on the same side. For some, the rash or the weakness may occur before the other, and rarely for some, a rash will never present. Other symptoms may include hearing loss, change in or loss of taste, tinnitus, vertigo, ear pain and difficulty closing one eye.
Complications can include eye damage owing to improper eye closure because of facial paralysis or weakness; permanent hearing loss and facial weakness; and postherpetic neuralgia (pain caused by damaged nerves).
Treatment includes antiviral drugs, steroids and pain relievers. If vertigo is a problem, anti-anxiety drugs may be beneficial. Home remedies include over-the-counter pain relievers and cool, wet compresses. If closing the eye is difficult, try using moisturizing eyedrops and taping the eyelid shut at night to prevent drying and damage.
Unfortunately, I am not aware of any effective alternative treatments that will speed healing. The virus has to run its course. Even with antiviral medication, some damage will be done, and only time will tell whether it’s permanent.
I suggest you try whatever alternatives you like, and keep a journal of the symptoms before treatment, what type of treatment you had and how your symptoms were affected, if at all, after treatment. If you have positive results from something, stick to it. Let me know of your results, and I will print a future article to inform my readers.
To provide related information, I am sending you copies of my Health Reports “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies” and “More Compelling Home Remedies.” Other readers who would like copies should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order for each report to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title(s) or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.