Justin Bieber has disclosed that he suffers from facial paralysis (Ramsay Hunt syndrome), citing his medical condition as the cause for the cancellation of his tour.
The 28-year-old pop diva posted a video on Instagram clarifying the diagnosis, which is a side effect of shingles that can cause facial paralysis.
According to the Mayo Clinic, hearing loss and facial paralysis associated with Ramsay Hunt syndrome are transitory but may become permanent.
As he began the video, Bieber’s right eye was unable to blink and the right side of his face would not move as he said, “Hey everyone, Justin here, I wanted to give you guys an update on what’s been going on.
Evidently, as you can likely tell from my face. My face is paralyzed as a result of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which is caused by a virus that targets the facial and ear nerves.
Later, Justin updated his Instagram Story with the following message: “Eating has been increasingly difficult, which has been really stressful; please pray for me [tear emoji].”
Bieber revealed that he was postponing the remaining 130 dates of his seven-leg Justice World Tour due to a sickness unrelated to the Zika virus.
“I can’t believe I just said that. “I’ve tried everything to get better, but my condition is worsening,” the singer of “What Do You Mean?” explained.
He continued, “My heart breaks that I must postpone these upcoming performances” (doctors orders). To all my people, I am going to rest and recover.”
In the posted video, Justin exposed the severe effects of his diagnosis by demonstrating that his right eye does not flicker, he cannot smile, and his right nostril does not shift position.
He explained, “Therefore, this side of my face is completely paralyzed.” Those who are irritated by my cancellations of upcoming performances should understand that I am physically unable of doing them. Clearly, the situation is quite grave.”