I have a question about Ramsay Hunt syndrome, specifically the atypical form without blisters (zoster sine herpete).
Ia’m A female 26 year Around 2.5 years ago, I experienced flu-like symptoms and ear pain, followed by a facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy) on the right side of my face. Recovery took some time, but I was eventually able to regain most of my facial function. I still notice mild symptoms when I’m very tired.
During the recovery, I developed severe pain on the right side of my face (mainly in the second and third branches of the trigeminal nerve). The pain felt like intense nerve pain—sharp, stabbing, burning, and deep. Since then, I’ve also had other symptoms, such as extreme fatigue, a very dry mouth, sensitivity to loud noises, frequent headaches/migraines, and an inability to tolerate wind, cold, or touch on my face.
An MRI showed inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve. I never had any visible blisters, but I strongly identify with the symptom pattern of the atypical form of Ramsay Hunt. So far, I haven’t received a clear diagnosis.
My current doctor says it’s not possible to confirm this retrospectively, not even based on the symptom pattern. I find that quite frustrating.
Does anyone recognize this situation? Or know more about it—or possibly recognize another condition that could explain the symptoms?
Thank you in advance for your thoughts and support!