Justin Bieber: Ramsay Hunt syndrome

Justin Bieber says a rare disorder that paralysed half of his face is the reason behind his tour postponement. The multi-Grammy award winner is suffering from Ramsay Hunt syndrome, he said in video he posted on Instagram on Friday. The syndrome causes facial paralysis and affects nerves in the face through a shingles outbreak. Bieber’s post comes after he cancelled his shows in Toronto and Washington DC. The singer demonstrated in the video that he could barely move one side of his face, calling the ailment “pretty serious“. “For those frustrated by my cancellations of the next shows, I’m just physically, obviously not capable of doing them,“ he said. “My body’s telling me I’ve got to slow down. I hope you guys understand,“ he added. Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus) occurs when a shingles outbreak affects the facial nerve near one of your ears. In addition to the painful shingles rash, Ramsay Hunt syndrome can cause facial paralysis and hearing loss in the affected ear. Ramsay Hunt syndrome is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After chickenpox clears up, the virus still lives in your nerves. Years later, it may reactivate. When it does, it can affect your facial nerves. Prompt treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can reduce the risk of complications, which can include permanent facial muscle weakness and deafness. Symptoms Facial paralysis Facial paralysis Open pop-up dialog box The two main signs and symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome are: A painful red rash with fluid-filled blisters on, in and around one ear Facial weakness or paralysis on the same side as the affected ear Usually, the rash and the facial paralysis occur at the same time. Sometimes one can happen before the other. Other times, the rash never occurs. If you have Ramsay Hunt syndrome, you might also experience: Ear pain Hearing loss Ringing in your ears (tinnitus) Difficulty closing one eye A sensation of spinning or moving (vertigo) A change in taste perception or loss of taste Dry mouth and eyes When to see a doctor Call your doctor if you experience facial paralysis or a shingles rash on your face. Treatment that starts within three days of the start of signs and symptoms may help prevent long-term complications.