1 in 3 Who Use These Drugs Develop Tardive Dyskinesia – The Silent Signs To Spot If You’re 1 Of Them

If you or a loved one have been using neuroleptic drugs you must pay attention. It’s now known that 1 in 3 patients using these medications may develop Tardive Dyskinesia which is a disorder that brings about involuntary movements and shakes. From tongue curling to rapid eye blinking knowing the early signs can be the difference in successful treatment for this debilitating condition.

What Is Tardive Dyskinesia?

Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a lesser-known yet concerning neurological disorder that primarily affects the muscles responsible for controlling voluntary movements. This condition often arises as a side effect of long-term usage of certain medications used to treat psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. Tardive Dyskinesia is characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of the face, tongue, lips, and other body parts, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and self-esteem.

What Are Its Early Warning Signs?

Spotting the early warning signs of Tardive Dyskinesia is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention. The condition typically develops after months or even years of taking medications that influence the dopamine system in the brain. Here are some early indicators to watch out for:

• Oral-Facial Movements: The first signs of Tardive Dyskinesia often manifest as subtle, repetitive movements of the mouth and face. These may include lip smacking, tongue protrusion, or chewing motions even when the person is not eating.
• Grimacing: Frequent facial grimaces or unusual expressions that do not match the person’s emotions might be early signs of TD.
• Uncontrolled Blinking: Rapid and uncontrollable blinking of the eyes, also known as blepharospasm, could be an early indicator of Tardive Dyskinesia.
• Restlessness: People with early-stage TD may experience restlessness and fidgeting, particularly in their hands and feet.
• Involuntary Limb Movements: TD can progress to involve the limbs, leading to repetitive and involuntary movements in the arms, legs, fingers, and toes.
• Slurred Speech: Difficulty in articulating words or slurred speech can be an early sign of TD.
• Torsion Dystonia: Some individuals may experience twisting movements in their trunk or limbs, known as torsion dystonia, which is a severe form of Tardive Dyskinesia.

The Symptoms To Watch For

As Tardive Dyskinesia advances, the symptoms can become more pronounced and interfere with daily life. The involuntary movements may become more disruptive and embarrassing for the person affected. It’s important to watch out for these potential symptoms:

• Social Withdrawal: Due to the involuntary movements and fear of judgment, people with TD may start avoiding social interactions and isolate themselves.
• Functional Impairment: The repetitive movements can hinder the ability to perform everyday tasks, such as eating, writing, or using electronic devices.
• Low Self-Esteem: Living with TD can lead to a decrease in self-confidence and self-esteem, as individuals may feel embarrassed or stigmatized by their condition.
• Sleep Disturbances: In some cases, it can lead to difficulty falling or staying asleep, causing fatigue and daytime sleepiness.
• Psychological Distress: Living with an uncontrollable movement disorder can result in anxiety, depression, or other psychological distress.

Who Is Most At Most Risk?

While Tardive Dyskinesia can potentially affect anyone taking certain medications, certain factors may increase the risk of developing this condition:

• Long-Term Medication Use: The risk of Tardive Dyskinesia increases with prolonged use of medications that block dopamine receptors, such as antipsychotic drugs.
• Age: Older adults, especially those above 55, are more susceptible to developing TD, possibly due to prolonged exposure to medications.
• Dosage: Higher doses of medications are associated with an increased risk of developing Tardive Dyskinesia.
• Gender: Women are slightly more likely to develop TD than men.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible to developing TD.

What Lifestyle Changes To Consider?

While Tardive Dyskinesia is primarily caused by medication, some lifestyle changes may help manage the condition and improve overall well-being:

• Communication: Openly discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, including worries about developing TD. They can work with you to find the best treatment plan.
• Stress Management: Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, may help manage TD symptoms.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve mood, sleep, and overall quality of life for people with TD.
• Dietary Choices: A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may contribute to better overall health.
• Avoid Alcohol and Illicit Drugs: Alcohol and illicit drugs can interact with medications and worsen TD symptoms.

Current Treatments For This Disease?

While there is no cure for Tardive Dyskinesia, several treatments can help manage its symptoms:

• Medication Adjustments: In some cases, a healthcare provider may consider adjusting the dosage or type of medication to alleviate TD symptoms.
• Switching Medications: If possible, switching to medications with a lower risk of causing TD may be considered.
• Ginkgo Biloba: Some studies suggest that Ginkgo Biloba supplements may have a modest benefit in reducing TD symptoms.
• Botulinum Toxin Injections: Injecting Botulinum toxin directly into affected muscles can help reduce the severity of involuntary movements.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): In severe cases, DBS, a surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain, may be an option to manage TD symptoms.

Learn The Medications That May Cause Tardive Dyskinesia

Recognizing the early warning signs of Tardive Dyskinesia is essential for early intervention and better management of this condition. If you or someone you know is taking medications that may increase the risk of TD, it is crucial to be vigilant for any unusual movements or symptoms. Promptly seeking advice from a healthcare professional can lead to timely treatment and improved quality of life for those affected by Tardive Dyskinesia. Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle and adhering to prescribed treatments can play a vital role in managing the symptoms and promoting overall well-being. To see early warning signs of Tardive Dyskinesianow, start an online search.