They cause swelling in your ear channel and that damages the 7th and sometimes 8th nerve. Bells palsy is just one symptom of Ramsay Hunt. Characterized by severe ear pain, facial nerve paralysis, vertigo, hearing loss and often mild generalized encephalitis. The vertigo may last days or weeks but usually resolves. The facial paralysis may be permanent, and the hearing loss, which is rarely permanent may be partial or total.
Treatment includes corticosteriod drugs.
My husband also took acylcovir. Good luck to you. Laurie Return to Main Article Article complete. Click HERE to return to the Neurology Web-Forum Menu.