The 28-year-old pop star canceled some upcoming shows of his world tour because of the illness.
This is pretty serious, as you could see.
I wish this wasnt the case, but obviously my body is telling me I gotta slow down.
Johnny Nunez / Getty Images for The Recording Academy
As you’re able to see, this eye is not blinking.
I cant smile on this side of my face.
This nostril will not move, he said.
What Is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
In some cases, a person may experience facial paralysis without a rash, or vice versa.
The syndrome is sparked by varicella-zoster, the same virus that causeschickenpoxandshingles.
Anyone who has had chickenpox in the past could develop RHS if the virus is reactivated.
Only about five in every 100,000 people contract RHS each year.
Is RHS Curable and How Long Does It Last?
The duration of RHS depends on the intensity of the condition and how quickly a patient receives treatment.
Treatment usually involves an antiviral medication like acyclovir, which is sometimes combined with a steroid.
Impaired nerves are also the cause of facial paralysis, as Bieber showed in his video.
As a patient heals, the nerves will have to grow and reconnect to their endpoints, Chong added.
Would RHS Affect Singing?
While RHS affects a persons facial nerves, it does not affect the vocal cords directly.
However, lingering symptoms might impair a patients ability to control their lip movement.
These cases lasted for a few weeks to a few months.
Bells palsy is similar to RHS in symptoms, although it does not produce a rash.
It is often treated withsteroidslike prednisone, which can speed up or optimize the chance of full recovery.
A doctor may also prescribeantiviral medicationslike Valtrex (valacyclovir) for Bells palsy.
The cause of Bells palsy is often unknown, although it can be triggered by a viral infection.
RHS is sometimes considered related to Bells palsy, Chong said.
Bells palsy affects about one in 5,000 people a year.
Is RHS Contagious?
RHS is not contagious on its own.
This aint it, Bieber said to his fans.
Thanks for being patient with me, he added.
Im gonna get better.
Getting treated within three days of symptom onset increases the chance of a full recovery.
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