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Many Justin Bieber fans were disheartened to hear about the pop star’s recent health scare. Bieber took to social media to explain his facial paralysis caused by Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. So, what are Ramsay Hunt Syndrome causes that the everyday fan should be aware of? Here’s everything to know about Justin Bieber’s paralysis.

What happened to Justin Bieber?

A close-up of Justin Bieber wearing a pink beanie and sunglasses. Justin Bieber was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in 2022
Justin Bieber | Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Justin Bieber postponed three shows on his 2022 Justice World Tour — and now, he’s giving fans more information on what’s happening.

“Hey everyone. Justin here,” he told his Instagram followers. “I wanted to update you guys on what’s been going on. Obviously, as you can probably see from my face, I have this syndrome called Ramsay Hunt syndrome, and it is from this virus that attacks the nerve in my ear and my facial nerves and has caused my face to have paralysis.”

Bieber then went on to show how half of his face is currently paralyzed.

” … This is pretty serious, as you can see,” he continued. “I wish this wasn’t the case, but obviously, my body is telling me I got to slow down. I hope you guys understand, and I’ll be using this time to rest and relax and get back to 100% so that I can do what I was born to do.” Bieber then noted he’s “going to get better” and he has facial exercises he can do to get back to normal.

Justin Bieber’s wife, Hailey Bieber, reposted his post on her Instagram Stories, too.

What are Ramsay Hunt Syndrome causes to be aware of?

What are the causes of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome? According to NORD, the disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that gives children chickenpox and adults shingles. The rare neurological disorder can lie dormant potentially for decades in those who had chickenpox in the past and then reactivate to cause Ramsay Hunt Syndrome later on. It is unknown why the virus reactivates and becomes this syndrome in some adults.

Justin Bieber’s Ramsay Hunt Syndrome presented itself as facial paralysis, and NORD notes it’s also common for affected individuals to develop a rash on the ear. Most people who have the syndrome experience a red, blistering rash that appears on the outside of the ear and the external ear canal. Other symptoms include ear ringing, ear pain that can become intense, hearing loss, vertigo, and nausea.

Is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome curable?

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Justin Bieber’s Ramsay Hunt Syndrome will likely disappear after a few weeks, though it doesn’t appear there’s any known cure. Mount Sinai notes if nerve damage is minimal, those with the syndrome can expect a full recovery in just weeks. Those who experience severe damage may take much longer to recover — or they may never make a full recovery.

If treatment for Ramsay Hunt Syndrome begins within three days after the onset of symptoms, there’s a greater chance of making a full recovery. Additionally, children are more likely to recover fully, and adults are less likely.

Bieber may also receive steroids and antiviral treatments to aid in recovery. It might also aid him to wear an eye patch over the eye that doesn’t blink or use artificial tears during the day.

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