If you were recently diagnosed with Tardive Dyskinesia, you might be wondering what caused it and how to treat it. This condition is characterized by involuntary muscle movements, often of the face and tongue. It can be a side effect of certain antipsychotic medications. While there is no cure for Tardive Dyskinesia, there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms.
The exact cause of Tardive Dyskinesia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an overactivity of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate movement. When there is too much dopamine, it can lead to involuntary muscle movements.
We know that certain antipsychotic medications are known to increase the risk of Tardive Dyskinesia. But it also appears to be more prevalent among women, the elderly, and those with diabetes.
Moreover, mental illnesses are shown to increase vulnerability in this medical condition. Whatever the case may be regarding your diagnosis of Tardive Dyskinesia, it’s important to know your options.
In this guide, we will discuss:
- What Tardive Dyskinesia is
- What causes it
- Who is most at risk
- How Tardive Dyskinesia is diagnosed
- The symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia
- How it’s treated
- And more
So keep reading to learn crucial information regarding this unique condition and what you can do to ensure a healthy life going forward.
What Is Tardive Dyskinesia?
Tardive Dyskinesia is a neurological disorder that is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements. These movements often affect the face and extremities and can be both embarrassing and painful. [1]
The exact cause of Tardive Dyskinesia is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with the use of certain antipsychotic medications.
Treatment for Tardive Dyskinesia typically involves discontinuing the use of the offending medication and starting a course of therapy to help lessen the symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
What Are the Symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia?
The most common symptom of Tardive Dyskinesia is involuntary muscle spasms. These spasms often affect the face and extremities, causing repetitive movements.
Symptoms usually develop after several months or years of treatment with antipsychotics. Moreover, there is no known cure for Tardive Dyskinesia. But there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms.
If you or someone you know is taking antipsychotic medication and develops any involuntary movements, it is important to contact a healthcare professional right away. Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent the condition from becoming worse.
If you have Tardive Dyskinesia, there are a few things you can do to help manage your symptoms:
Talk to your doctor about your medications. Some antipsychotics are more likely to cause Tardive Dyskinesia than others. If you are concerned about the risk, talk to your doctor about changing medications.
Exercise regularly. Exercise can help improve muscle control and reduce involuntary movements.
Eat a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help improve overall health and well-being.
Limit alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol can make Tardive Dyskinesia symptoms worse. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Practice stress-relieving techniques. Stress can worsen Tardive Dyskinesia symptoms. Try to manage stress with relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
Tardive Dyskinesia is a serious condition that can cause great distress and impairment. If you think you may have Tardive Dyskinesia, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.
Is Tardive Dyskinesia Treatable?
There is no known cure for Tardive Dyskinesia. However, there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms.
The first step in treating Tardive Dyskinesia is to discontinue the use of the offending medication. If the cause is unknown, all medications should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.
Once the offending medication has been discontinued, a course of therapy may be recommended to help lessen the symptoms.
Another possible treatment option is DBS surgery. This is a type of brain surgery that is used to treat a variety of neurological conditions.
If you have Tardive Dyskinesia, it is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating this condition, so it is important to work with a healthcare professional to find the best treatment plan for you.
Early Warning Signs
There are a few early warning signs that may indicate the development of Tardive Dyskinesia. If you or someone you know is taking antipsychotic medication and experiences any of the following symptoms, it is important to contact a healthcare professional right away:
- Involuntary muscle spasms
- Repetitive movements
- Facial tics
- Uncontrollable blinking
- Difficulty speaking clearly
- Dystonia (sustained muscle contractions)
If you are diagnosed with Tardive Dyskinesia, don’t lose hope. With the right medical care and approach, you can lead a normal, healthy life.
Natural Remedies for TD
There are a few natural remedies that have been shown to help lessen the symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia.
One study found that taking vitamin E supplements helped to improve symptoms in people with Tardive Dyskinesia. [2]
It’s also believed that taking melatonin, vitamin B6, and ginkgo biloba, along with vitamin E, can help improve symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia.
If you are interested in trying a natural remedy for Tardive Dyskinesia, talk to your doctor first. Some supplements can interact with medications and may not be safe for everyone.
Your doctor can help you determine if a natural remedy is right for you and can offer guidance on dosage and safety.
Conclusion
Tardive Dyskinesia is a serious condition that can cause great distress and impairment. If you think you may have Tardive Dyskinesia, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and treatment options.
Remember, there is no known cure for Tardive Dyskinesia. But there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. With the right treatment, you can lead a normal, healthy life.
If you or someone you know is taking antipsychotic medication and experiences any of the symptoms outlined above, it is important to contact a healthcare professional right away. The sooner you address your condition, the better your chances are of finding an effective treatment.
References:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/Tardive -Dyskinesia
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6491331/