Pain
CBD and its use in Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome and related fatigue is a neurological disorder that may be managed with the topical use of CBD. The rare disorder that causes facial nerve paralysis similar to Bell’s Palsy, as well as an ear or mouth rash, recently came into the spotlight when pop star Justin Bieber cancelled tour dates after being diagnosed.
Ear symptoms include tinnitus, ringing in the ears, and hearing loss – and as such Bieber was rightfully worried about the potential problems that could cause in his career. Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which also causes chickenpox in children and shingles (herpes zoster) in adults.
VZV is dormant in the body and can be reactivated during periods of poor immunity or insufficient nutritional food.
Early treatment of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome can reduce the risk of consequences such as permanent facial muscle paralysis and hearing loss.
Signs and Symptoms
The two primary signs and symptoms of this rare disorder are:
- A severe red rash with fluid-filled blisters on, in, and around one ear
- Facial paralysis or weakness on the same side as the afflicted ear
In typical cases often both will occur simultaneously, but be aware that sometimes one may occur earlier, or a rash may not appear at all.
Other potential side effects may include, but are not limited to:
- Chronic fatigue
- Ear pain
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Difficulty closing one eye
- A sensation of spinning or moving (vertigo)
- Taste perception change or loss
- Dry eyes and mouth
Managing Ramsay Hunt Syndrome fatigue with CBD
Prompt treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome can lower the chances of long-term complications, including permanent facial muscle weakness and deafness.
There are several treatments available for people diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, but CBD has been shown to help relieve many of the symptoms involved with the disorder, without some of the more negative side effects such as those found with addictive painkillers.
Preclinical and clinical studies show that CBD has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Researchers deduce these characteristics can provide significant neuroprotection or protection against numerous pathological disorders such as RHS.
Secondarily, CBD has been shown to benefit patients in several other areas often common with painful and debilitating disorders, like Ramsay Hunt Syndrome fatigue.
These can include but aren’t limited torelief from anxiety or depression, general pain relief, better sleep or help with insomnia, reduced nausea and dizziness, reducing the issues associated with chronic fatigue, and as stated previously, is less addictive than many over-the-counter medications that provide similar results.
