Symptoms
If you experience any of these symptoms do not assume focal dystonia is the cause. These symptoms may be attributed to other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your doctor.
- Eyelid spasms
- Rapid or uncontrollable blinking of both eyes
- Neck twisting
- Difficulty handwriting
- Foot cramps
- Pulling or dragging of a foot
- Tremor
- Voice or speech difficulties
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Your doctor may refer you to a speech-language pathologist, physical or occupational therapists, and/or genetic counselors.
Tests may include the following:
- A careful family history
- Blood tests
- Urine tests
- Cerebrospinal fluid tests
- Genetic tests
- Electromyography —to determine the health of the muscles and nerves
- Electroencephalography —a test that records the brain’s activity by measuring electrical currents through the brain, used to detect or rule out seizures
- Skin, muscle, and/or nerve tissue biopsies
- Eye examination
- Neurologic evaluation—to rule out other neurological disorders
- MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the head
- CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the head
Electroencephalography
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
More Focal Dystonia Information
Improved
620 HealthChanged
293 LivesSaved
210 LivesPopular this Week
Connect with Women Like You 9 Women Care About this Condition
You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!
+ Join this Community
