Uncover the truth about tardive dyskinesia, an involuntary muscle movement disorder. Learning about its causes and early symptoms can help you deal with tardive dyskinesia or prevent it in the first place.
What is Tardive Dyskinesia?
Tardive dyskinesia is a chronic movement disorder that causes involuntary muscle movements.1 These movements can affect the face, mouth, trunk, and limbs. Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect of certain medications, particularly those used to treat mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Tardive dyskinesia is a serious condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. The involuntary movements can be embarrassing and disruptive, and they can make it difficult to perform everyday activities. In some cases, tardive dyskinesia can also lead to physical pain and disability.
There is no cure for tardive dyskinesia, but the symptoms can be managed with medication and other treatments. If you are experiencing involuntary muscle movements, it is important to see your doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment.
Learn About Tardive Dyskinesia Symptoms
The symptoms of tardive dyskinesia can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Involuntary sticking out of the tongue
- Fast eye blinking
- Smacking lips
- Flapping arms
- Writhing movements of the body
- Difficulty speaking
- Difficulty swallowing
The symptoms of tardive dyskinesia can range from mild to severe. In some cases, the symptoms may be so mild that they are barely noticeable. In other cases, the symptoms may be so severe that they make it difficult to perform everyday activities.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, it is important to see your doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment.
Educate Yourself About Tardive Dyskinesia Causes
Tardive dyskinesia is caused by certain medications.2 The risk of developing tardive dyskinesia increases with the length of time a person takes certain medications and the higher the dose. If you take certain medications, it is important to be aware of the risk of tardive dyskinesia. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the medications you take, and be sure to report any involuntary muscle movements that you experience.
Learn More About Tardive Dyskinesia
If you would like to learn more about tardive dyskinesia, there are a number of resources available online. Trusted online resources an provide you with more information about the symptoms, causes, and treatment of tardive dyskinesia. You can also find support groups and other resources for people with tardive dyskinesia.