Rare Neurological Disorder That Left Justin Bieber’s Face Paralysed: What Is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
- Justin Bieber got diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in 2023.
- The disorder causes facial nerve damage, paralysis, and even hearing loss.
- The singer, who was also diagnosed with Lyme Disease, is doing fine now and recovering, thanks to proper medical attention.
A disease of disorder can strike anyone, anytime. No matter their net worth, their standing in society, or their profession. From Celine Dion’s Stiff Person Syndrome to Justin Bieber’s Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, the recent diagnosis in celebrities of rare disorders is further helping other people with the same trouble in being seen and raising awareness.
Both Dion and Bieber have been vocal about their struggles, sharing glimpses of their journey with their fans on social media platforms. In 2022, Bieber revealed his diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome which pushed him to cancel his tours. Here’s what the syndrome entails.
What Is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?
This syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that leads to facial paralysis. A nerve near the person’s ear gets pulled, thus causing hearing loss in many cases too. Justin Bieber’s diagnosis helped other people with RHS feel that they were not alone in this battle. The singer shared images and videos on Instagram, garnering widespread sympathy and love from fans.
RHS is said to be linked to the chickenpox virus, though it’s not communicable through touch. The virus deeply affects the immune system in the person and depletes the energy that is needed to fend off the disease.
The underlying cause of the disorder seems to be the chickenpox virus that people may have had as kids which lays dormant for a long period of time. The varicella-zoster virus can come back anytime as people grow old, the reason behind the same has not been discovered yet.
Justin Bieber is sharing updates on Social Media
The singer didn’t stop at just the diagnosis. Bieber ensured his fans got regular updates on his health and continued to share images and videos showcasing his progress in mobility. Seems like the treatment was working very well for the Sorry singer as he was able to move his face and smile a bit by March 2023.
RHS can also cause rashes in the ear canal and around the cavity, leading to incessant itching and irritation. Not only that, the syndrome can at times lead to permanent facial muscle weakness and hearing loss.
Justin Bieber also battled Lyme Disease
In 2020, Bieber took to Instagram to share his Lyme Disease diagnosis. This came after speculations and rumors about the patches on his skin went viral, leading to many people assuming he had a drug problem.
Bieber cleared the air with his confession as people then understood that the rashes were due to the bacterial ticks that affect the body. Bieber said in a video,
They failed to realise I’ve been recently diagnosed with Lyme disease, not only that but had a serious case of chronic mono which affected my skin, brain function, energy, and overall health.
The Baby singer reassured fans that he was getting adequate medical attention and overcoming the disease gradually. His wife Hailey Bieber stood by him through it all and even shut down trolls who tried to demean his condition.
