Conversion Disorder
 · 2 min read
 · Julia Robhurts
Table of contents

Understanding the Symptoms of Conversion Disorder

Introduction

Conversion Disorder, also known as Functional Neurological Disorder, is a mental health condition that presents with neurological symptoms that cannot be explained by any medical or neurological condition. The symptoms can significantly impact an individual's functionality and quality of life. Understanding the common symptoms associated with Conversion Disorder is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Details

  • Motor Symptoms

    • Weakness or Paralysis
      • Sudden loss of strength in a limb or other body part.
      • Commonly affects legs and arms but can occur anywhere in the body.
    • Abnormal Gait
      • Difficulty walking or an unusual walking pattern.
      • May resemble a limp or uncoordinated movement.
    • Tremors or Jerks
      • Involuntary shaking of one or more body parts.
      • Can mimic symptoms of Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders.
    • Dystonia
      • Abnormal muscle tone leading to distorted postures.
      • Frequently affects the neck (cervical dystonia) or limbs.

  • Sensory Symptoms

    • Altered Sensation
      • Changes in feeling or perception (e.g., numbness, tingling).
      • Patients may report “dead” feelings in limbs.
    • Visual Disturbances
      • Partial or complete loss of vision (hysterical blindness).
      • Double vision or blurred vision without an underlying ocular cause.
    • Hearing Loss
      • Sudden losses in hearing can occur, often without medical explanation.
      • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) may also be reported.

  • Seizure-Like Episodes

    • Non-Epileptic Seizures (NES)
      • Seizures that resemble epilepsy but do not have an electrographic basis.
      • May involve shaking, jerking, or loss of consciousness without electrical activity in the brain.
    • Variability in Presentation
      • Episodes can vary in frequency and duration.
      • Reported triggers often include stress or emotional conflicts.

  • Psychological Symptoms

    • Emotional Distress
      • Patients often experience anxiety, depression, or significant stress related to their symptoms.
      • Feelings of frustration, helplessness, and confusion are common.
    • History of Trauma or Stress
      • Many individuals with Conversion Disorder report a past history of trauma or significant life stressors.
      • Can include physical, emotional, or sexual trauma and chronic stressors.

  • Other Characteristics

    • Inconsistency of Symptoms
      • Symptoms may change or fluctuate in intensity.
      • Patients might show highly variable reactions to stimuli.
    • Lack of Medical Explanation
      • Symptoms cannot be attributed to a known medical condition after thorough evaluation.
      • Typically, diagnostic tests come back normal despite pronounced symptoms.

Conclusion

Conversion Disorder presents a range of symptoms that can mimic real neurological conditions but have no clear medical basis. Recognizing the variety of motor, sensory, psychological, and seizure-like symptoms is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. A comprehensive approach often involving mental health support and physical rehabilitation is essential to manage the complexities of this disorder effectively. Understanding these symptoms helps to reduce stigma and improve outcomes for individuals affected by Conversion Disorder.