Dyskinesia is a generic term used to describe a wide variety of movement disorders. The brain controls all movements in the body. Even a simple seeming activity of a hand reaching out to pick up something or if one has to smile has various muscles and nerves at work which coordinate and make sure that the activity is completed. Though these processes may seem simple, the amount of work that goes behind them makes it quite complicated. These movements involve various muscles and nerve fibers through which impulses flow and any problem in any part of the process can result in poor movement.

Dyskinesia is a condition that could affect muscle movements or cause involuntary movements. The sufferer undergoes painful experiences as they are unable to control these involuntary movements.

Dyskinesia refers to a group of involuntary muscle movements. These involuntary muscle movements can be identified as follows:

• Something obvious such as the tics or muscle twitches on the face to invisible involuntary muscles like the lungs and intestines.
• A one-off instance that does not require any attention or could be a chronic condition that needs to be treated as it affects a person’s overall quality of life.
• Effect on one part of the body such as the facial muscles or the entire body.
• Some types of dyskinesia is time-specific and does not bother the person during the rest of the day.
• Severity can range from mild to severe to painful. Moreover, the person could feel immense pain as they would not be able to control for how long the movements would last.

Causes of dyskinesia

Parkinson’s

This is one of the most common medical conditions that causes dyskinesia. However, not everybody with Parkinson’s can develop dyskinesia. Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder and is caused due to reduced levels of dopamine. In addition, levodopa which is used to treat Parkinson’s also causes dyskinesia. Intake of high doses of levodopa increases dopamine levels; moreover, the constant fluctuation of dopamine levels can further cause dyskinesia.

Use of antipsychotic medications

Haloperidol, chlorpromazine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines which are widely used in treating schizophrenia and bipolar disorders produces a condition known as Tardive Dyskinesia. These again play with the dopamine levels in the brain, and as a result, movement is affected. Anyone who takes these medications for more than 3 months is likely to be affected and so the doctor should be immediately notified. The risks are higher in women who are over 55, have undergone menopause, and those who indulge in alcohol or drugs abuse.

Non-motor

These are caused by ineffective body movements and are not related to a movement disorder. Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia and Biliary Dyskinesia are two types.

Dyskinesia should not be ignored, especially in people with Parkinson’s or other psychotic conditions. Adequate medical consultation and timely treatment must be taken to manage dyskinesia.

If a person notices the signs that indicate dyskinesia, he/she should immediately consult a doctor to take timely treatment before the condition can worsen.

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