General Information About Dystonia
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a nervous system disorder that causes a specific part or the entirety of the body to twist, writhe, or remain in an abnormal posture as a result of involuntary muscle contractions.
It can affect the neck muscles causing the head to turn to one side (cervical dystonia), the eyelids causing them to blink involuntarily (blepharospasm), the voice (spasmodic dysphonia), or the hand causing cramps while writing (writer's cramp).
Some cases are of genetic origin (primary). Others occur as a result of brain traumas, strokes, lack of oxygen, carbon monoxide poisoning, or as a side effect of certain psychiatric medications (secondary).
Painful muscle spasms in the affected area, twisting movements, tremors, difficulty walking, or speech disorders. Symptoms typically increase with stress and fatigue.
Clinical observation by a neurologist is essential. An EMG (Electromyography) that measures the electrical activity of muscles and MRI imaging to rule out structural problems in the brain are used.
Administering Botulinum Toxin (Botox) injections into the involuntarily contracting muscles at regular intervals is the most effective temporary solution. In severe and widespread cases where medications are insufficient, Deep Brain Stimulation (Brain Pacemaker) surgery is performed.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
