After a while, the varicella-zoster virus can reactivate and affect nerve cells, one of which is the facial nerve. This disturbed nerve can eventually cause facial paralysis.
Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in Children
Ramsay Hunt syndrome usually affects adults. Although very rare, this disorder can also occur in children. The risk of developing this syndrome is increased in children with weakened immune systems.
Children who suffer from Ramsay Hunt syndrome generally show symptoms of a fluid-filled rash in one or both ears. In some cases, a rash may also appear on the roof of the mouth or throat.
In addition, the appearance of the rash is also accompanied by facial paralysis on the same side as the ear that has the rash. Sometimes, symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome in children are also accompanied by the following conditions:
- Hearing disorders
- Ringing in the ears or tinnitus
- Vertigo
- Loss of taste or ageusia
- Dry eyes
- Difficulty closing the eyes on the side of the face that is paralyze
- Slurred talk
Treatment of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in Children
If a rash appears and paralysis occurs on the child's face, the doctor will perform a series of examinations to determine the cause. Inspections carried out generally include:
Blood tests and skin tests to detect the varicella-zoster virus
Lumbar puncture or spinal fluid extraction
head MRI
After getting a diagnosis, treatment must be carried out immediately to prevent complications that result in eye damage, hearing loss, or permanent facial paralysis.
Treatment is done by giving drugs to relieve the symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome. The following are medicines that are generally given by doctors:
- Antiviral drugs, such as famciclovir or acyclovir, to treat viral infections
- Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, to enhance the effect of antiviral drugs
- Pain relievers, such as carbamazepine, to reduce pain
- Antihistamines, to treat vertigo symptoms
- Eye drops, to prevent corneal damage due to dry eyes
If your child shows symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, you should avoid contact with people who have never had chickenpox, have a weakened immune system, infants, and pregnant women to reduce the risk of spreading it.
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