Dystonia

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder characterized by uncontrollable muscle contractions, resulting in abnormal often repeated twisting movements postures, or both. It can affect any part of the body. These twisting and abnormal movements can be painful sometimes.

Symptoms

There are certain symptoms of dystonia which includes cramping of the foot, dragging legs, uncontrollable pulling of the neck, uncontrollable blinking, difficulty with speech, breathing and swallowing or twisting of the head and these may result in stress, pain, over-tiredness, depression, anxiety, social withdrawal and may affect the quality of life. These symptoms may vary depending on the part of the body involved.

Causes

The exact cause of dystonia is not known but it is related to a problem in that part of the brain, which is responsible for creating muscle contractions. The problem may involve altered nerve cell communications in several areas of the brain. Some causes of dystonia include birth injury, certain infections, brain tumors, reaction to certain drugs, heavy metal poisoning, trauma, oxygen deprivation, or stroke.

Types

There are mainly two types of dystonia, primary dystonia, and secondary dystonia. Primary dystonia is one that occurs with other neurological symptoms. it is genetic in origin while secondary dystonia is usually caused by a combination of various conditions and diseases such as birth injury, brain tumor, traumatic brain injury, or Parkinson’s disease.

Treatment

To diagnose dystonia the neurologist will review the medical and family history of the patient and will carry out some tests to determine the type of dystonia the patient has. The treatment will aim at managing muscle contraction. To do this the doctor might recommend a combination of therapies including physical, speech, stretching or massage, medication, and even sometimes surgery which is recommended to people with severe symptoms.

Treatment at home

Dystonia has no cure but you can do a number of things to minimize its effects like sensory tricks, applying heat or cold packs managing the stress, positive self-talk, meditation, deep breathing, and yoga. Also, physical therapies can help in reducing muscle tension and stress.

When to see a neurologist?

Dystonia in people is developmentally normal, however, if left untreated, it can cause dramatic twisting and can result in many inabilities. So it is important to be evaluated by a neurologist as soon as possible as the symptoms of dystonia are seen. The early and expert actions can ensure proper diagnosis and effective treatment.