26 Aug Are You Aware Of Dystonia?
There are many health issues that may be common, yet less understood. One such issue is dystonia, which affects millions of people across the worlds every year, yet there is not much awareness about it, and not many treatments. Even though there is a good amount of research done in this area, and even though dystonia is the third most common movement disorder, after essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease, there are very less known treatments, and yet no permanent cure! And, this is why doctors yet have their hands tied, unable to help patients as much as they want to.
What is dystonia?
Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that is characterized by excessive involuntary muscle contractions, which leads to twisting movement and unnatural postures. Such twisting of the body and involuntary postures is actually very painful for the patient. That is why delay in identifying dystonia symptoms can result in a lot of pain and discomfort.
How can dystonia be treated?
Although dystonia could be genetic, or due to certain environmental factors, yet the real reason that causes it is yet unknown. And, because the real cause is known, there is also no permanent cure. But yes, there are certain therapies to manage the symptoms, and thus bring relief.
Botox injections
Majority of patients suffering from dystonia are prescribed Botox injections. These injections inject Botulinum toxin into the affected muscles that are responsible for causing the involuntary movements. The toxin prevents contractions and thus does not let involuntary movements arise. This brings immense relief for the patient, and helps him live a normal life. But, this is not a permanent solution, as the effects of the toxin are seen only for a few months, after which the patient needs to be injected again. Thus, Botox is a short-term therapy that can bring immense relief to the patient; but is not a permanent cure.
Deep Brain Stimulation
When Botox doesn’t seem to work, the next and last retort to dystonia is Deep Brain Stimulation, which is an invasive surgery that involves implanting small electrodes into specific regions of the brain, which are then connected through wires to a pacemaker-like battery installed into the chest. When impulses are sent from the battery to the electrodes, the signals causing muscle spasms are blocked, thus blocking the involuntary movements too. As risky as this surgery may sound, it is also equally safe and approved by the FDA. However, just like any other surgery, this surgery too may have its own side-effects, such as infection, headache, pain, swelling, and more. Nevertheless, if you are ready to take the risk and undergo the procedure, you should also understand that this too, just like Botox, is not a permanent cure. It is a way to control the muscle contractions, and also needs timely diagnosis, at least once a year, to check for any replacements or repairs that need to be made.
Who to approach for treatment?
When you feel like you are experiencing even the mildest symptoms of dystonia, you must immediately get in touch with a dystonia specialist. Depending upon your condition and health, the doctor will suggest you whichever of the above two therapies are well-suited for you. And, if required, and if possible results are determined, the doctor may also give you additional medications, physical therapies, and stress management therapies. One such doctor is Dr. Shivam Mittal who has been serving patients and offering them successful dystonia treatment in UAE since a long time. So, we request you to be aware of the symptoms of dystonia, and whether it’s you or anyone else you know, just get in touch as soon as you identify any symptoms, to relieve the patient of any pain or discomfort.
