Understanding the Different Forms of Dyskinesia
Explore the various types of dyskinesia, including Parkinsonian dyskinesia, tremors, dystonia, chorea, and tardive dyskinesia. Understand their causes, symptoms, and associated conditions to better recognize and manage these movement disorders.
Understanding the Different Forms of Dyskinesia
Dyskinesia arises from various causes, primarily related to changes in brain chemistry. It often results from medication use or injuries affecting the basal ganglia—a key brain region responsible for voluntary control and movement regulation. Damage to this area significantly contributes to the development of dyskinesia. This article explores the different types of dyskinesia, their causes, and associated symptoms.
Parkinsonian Dyskinesia
Approximately 50% of Parkinson’s disease patients treated with levodopa experience dyskinesia. Since levodopa influences dopamine levels, fluctuations can trigger abnormal movements. Typical signs include fidgeting, head bobbing, swaying, and writhing, which often remain mild enough not to interfere with daily life.
- Resting tremors: Occur when a limb is supported and relaxed. Common in Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis.
- Action or kinetic tremors: Manifest during movement, affecting parts like the hand or arm. Often linked to neurological issues.
Dystonia
Dystonia features sustained muscle contractions causing twisting movements or abnormal postures. Patients may experience eyelid spasms (blepharospasms), continuous blinking, or writer’s cramp, which hampers handwriting due to abnormal hand positioning.
Chorea
This form involves involuntary, jerky motions that are brief and uncontrollable. Affected areas include the limbs and face, often alternating sides. Chorea can result from medications like antiepileptics, antipsychotics, or Parkinson’s treatments, as well as conditions such as lupus, infections, or pregnancy.
Tardive Dyskinesia
Primarily caused by antipsychotic drugs used for mental health issues, tardive dyskinesia involves stiff, repetitive movements. It results from dopamine blockade, disrupting cellular communication in the brain.
