This starts with the pain behind the ear and often spreads to pain and tenderness of the outer ear with extreme pain and dizziness from within the ear itself. Described as the worst hangover you can imagine, without relief, it is the result of a shingles invasion.

The facial paralysis when it occurs is a minor inconvenience when compared with the pain.

Best treatment is an antiviral agent and steroids as early as possible.

Combined with tender loving care until the patient is feeling better. Once the acute stage is over and it may last for quite a few months the facial nerve does recover.

Synkinesis may be the main problem long term with the facial rehabilitation, however, there is a promising outlook following this severe onset.