Additional Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS)
While the classic three symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS) may not manifest in every case, there are several additional symptoms that can occur. These include nausea and vomiting, dizziness, vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus or ringing in the ears. Some individuals may also experience hyperacusis, a condition where sounds appear much louder than their actual intensity.
If the rash caused by RHS affects the mouth and throat, dry mouth and loss of taste may occur. Additionally, some individuals may experience a runny nose, watery eyes, and nystagmus (involuntary eye movements) following facial pain.
Location of RHS in the Body
After a person has had chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus becomes dormant and hides in the nerve tissues. When the virus becomes active again, it causes shingles outbreaks along the nerves. In the case of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS), the virus reactivates along the sensory nerves in the face. The most common sites for RHS are the 7th cranial nerve and the 8th cranial nerve, also known as the auditory or vestibulocochlear nerve. These nerves are located in a small area called the facial canal and are responsible for controlling facial movement and expressions.