Singer Justin Bieber is speaking out about his rare condition that has caused facial paralysis and hearing loss. Though he finds strength in his Christian faith, medical experts say the syndrome can sometimes result in never getting full facial function back.
Justin Bieber speaks out about his facial paralysis
Singer Justin Bieber is suffering from Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus infecting a nerve in the skull near the inner ear.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome can result in paralysis on one side of the face, which leads to weakness and muscle droop. In addition, the syndrome also causes hearing loss. In many patients, the effects can be permanent.
Justin posted a video telling fans that because he is unable to move his face, he has been forced to cancel some concerts and plans to take a break from touring while he recuperates, CNN reported.
Justin says Christian faith helps “give him peace”
“Wanted to share a little bit of how I’ve been feeling,” he wrote. “Each day has gotten better and through all of the discomfort I have found comfort in the one who designed me and knows me.”
“He knows the darkest parts of me that I want no one to know about and he constantly welcomes me into his loving arms,” Bieber’s statement continued. “This perspective has given me peace during this horrific storm that I’m facing.”
“I know this storm will pass but in the meantime Jesus is with me,” Justin wrote on Instagram.
What is Ramsay Hunt syndrome? Will Justin Bieber be able to sing again?
The condition Justin Bieber is suffering from is known as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS), a rare neurological disorder, that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus infecting a nerve in the skull near the inner ear.
Facial paralysis expert Doctor Nina Lu from the University of Washington says many patients who suffer from Ramsay Hunt syndrome do not get full facial function back. However, with early treatment, up to 70 percent of patients are able to return to normal, according to the doctor.
Since the syndrome affects both speech and hearing, many wonder whether Justin Bieber will recover enough to continue his music career.
The varicella-zoster virus is the same that causes chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster). It is one of the nine herpes viruses known to affect humans. The varicella-zoster virus can lay dormant in the body and then reactivate, but scientists do not understand what causes the reactivation.
Because the virus attacks the inner ear, it can also cause vertigo (a sensation of dizziness or things spinning around you), as well as tinnitus (a ringing in the ear), or hearing loss on the affected side of the face.
Ramsay Hunt has a poor prognosis, with over 50 percent suffering from permanent residual weakness and paralysis on one side of the face, Tampa Bay Hearing reports. However, early treatment, which can reduce inflammation putting pressure on the nerves, reduces the risk of a bad outcome. Surgery for nerve decompression may be indicated for a limited number of patients.
