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Q.

How does Ramsay Hunt syndrome compare with Bell's palsy?

Related Topics: Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
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Bell's palsy also is a result of injury to the facial nerve by virus infection, but the suspected cause of Bell's palsy (viral) has not been identified. Ramsey Hunt syndrome is caused by the Varicella virus (herpes zoster) that also causes chickenpox and shingles (a painful, blister-producing herpes zoster reinfection that usually occurs on one side of the body). There is no red rash associated with Bell's palsy as there is with Ramsey Hunt syndrome. Additionally, Ramsay Hunt syndrome is commonly more painful than Bell's palsy. However, both can cause eyelid and mouth paralysis on one side of the face.

Dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclona is a rare degenerative disease of the nerves characterized by epilepsy, muscle spasms, and gradually increasing tremors. Like Bell's palsy, this disease complex mimics many symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Some researchers term the disease complex Ramsay Hunt syndrome type 2.

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