Answer:

The Varicella Zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox upon initial infection. Afterward, the immune system eliminates most of the virus, but some remnants remain dormant within nerve cells. When the immune system weakens due to aging, chronic diseases like diabetes or chronic kidney disease, or prolonged stress and body debility, the virus reactivates, leading to a rash.

Ear shingles occurs when the Varicella Zoster virus reactivates in the geniculate ganglion, spreading along the 7th cranial nerve, which controls facial muscle movement, and the 8th cranial nerve, which governs hearing and balance. This condition results in rash patches and clustered blisters on the ear rim, accompanied by severe burning pain. Other symptoms include incomplete eye closure, facial paralysis on the same side as the blisters, hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and labyrinthitis.

Ear shingles is less common than shingles in other body areas. However, delayed detection and treatment can lead to long-term complications such as prolonged nerve pain, irreversible peripheral facial paralysis, and permanent hearing loss. In individuals with compromised immune systems or chronic diseases, the virus may invade the central nervous system, causing meningitis.

Dr. Xuan Nguyen advises a patient. *Illustration: Tam Anh General Clinic District 7*

You should seek medical examination for a diagnosis. If it is indeed ear shingles, complete treatment according to a doctor's regimen is essential. Currently, no specific medication fully eradicates VZV from the body. Doctors often combine antiviral medication with corticosteroid anti-inflammatory medication to shorten the illness duration, reduce pain, and limit complications.

Even after successful treatment, the virus can remain dormant in nerve ganglia and reactivate if the immune system weakens. Therefore, patients should get the shingles vaccine to reduce the risk of recurrence. Simultaneously, it is important to manage any chronic diseases well, maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and limit stress to keep the immune system stable.

Dr. Tran Xuan Nguyen, Specialist Level I

Department of Otorhinolaryngology

Tam Anh General Clinic District 7