The key to recovery from Ramsay Hunt syndrome is the effective treatment of the varicella-zoster virus. Anti-viral medications, such as Acyclovir or Famciclovir are recommended for 7 to 10 days along with strong anti-inflammatory steroids (such as Prednisolone) for 3 to 5 days which are tapered off in about a week. Although steroids are usually recommended for the treatment of these acute symptoms and complications, new studies question the effectiveness and viability of this course of action. Sometimes strong pain killers are also needed if the pain persists.

In patients at risk, blood pressure, blood glucose and electrolytes should be monitored throughout the treatment.

For some patients, herpes zoster infections not only result in acute pain but serious consequences, including postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and damage to ocular tissues.

During the period of facial weakness great care must be taken to avoid damage to the eye. Dryness may promote abrasions and ulceration which may lead to other more serious complications. The use of eyepatches have been recommended in the past but in reality these can cause the eyelid to brush against the patch and cause further damage. Regular use of eyedrops or a moisture chamber and taping the eye shut at night helps protect the eye.

About 90% of idiopathic Bell's palsy cases recover without the need for further treatment or therapy. However, long term cases may consider surgery to repair the damaged nerve. Facial exercises are often recommended to aid the healing process although many patients experience a full recovery without ever performing the exercises.

Anti-emtic (anti sickness) drugs can be prescribed to control the nausea and vomiting brought on by vertigo in Ramsay Hunt cases. Oral treatments like Domperidone and Cyclizine or intra muscular injections of Prochlorperazine help counter the chronic effects of loss of balance but symptoms may be amplified in some cases when the drugs wear off. Associated side effects can be constipation, headaches, flushing, fatigue, indigestion, insomnia and twitching.