Shingles, identified by a red and itchy rash, comes from the varicella-zoster virus—the virus responsible for chickenpox. When you have chickenpox, the rash eventually clears but the virus remains dormant in the body. For approximately 10% of people, the virus can reactivate later in life as shingles.
A lesser-known complication of shingles is damage to your hearing. Let’s take a closer look at two ways shingles can damage your hearing and some steps you can take to protect your ears.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
Ramsay Hunt syndrome occurs when shingles target the facial nerve near one of your ears, often causing both facial paralysis and hearing loss on the affected side. Two common signs to watch for include:
- A painful, blistered rash in or around the ear
- Weakness or paralysis in the face on the same side as the ear rash
Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear, and shingles can sometimes trigger it. When labyrinthitis goes untreated, it may lead to hearing loss and balance issues. Symptoms might include muffled hearing, dizziness, trouble standing upright or feeling like the room is spinning.
Other Possible Symptoms
Along with hearing problems, shingles-related ear issues might bring:
- Ear pain or ringing (tinnitus)
- Difficulty closing one eye
- Changes in taste
- Vertigo
- Dry mouth or eyes
How to Prevent Shingles-Related Hearing Loss
The best defense against shingles-related hearing loss is vaccination:
- Chickenpox vaccine for kids. Vaccinating children against chickenpox reduces their chance of carrying the virus into adulthood.
- Shingles vaccine for adults. If you’re over 50, have a weakened immune system or have had chickenpox, talk to your doctor about the shingles vaccine. It’s highly effective at preventing shingles and its complications.
If you’re unsure if you had chickenpox as a kid, your general care provider can confirm with a blood test.
Why Does Hearing Loss Prevention Matter?
Hearing loss doesn’t just affect your ears. It can disrupt communication, relationships and even mental well-being. Vaccination is a simple step that can save you from a lot of pain and potential complications down the line.
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or are worried about shingles, don’t wait. Reach out to your Vero Beach pharmacy or general care doctor for vaccination information, and contact Aaron's Hearing Aid & Audiology Center to schedule an appointment with one of our hearing specialists for expert advice.