Overview of Tardive Dyskinesia

We rely on a delicate system of chemical and electrical transmitters to send signals to and from nerves as well as from nerves to muscles

. When these systems are disrupted, it can also disrupt your control of your muscle movements. One such disorder that results from this disruption is tardive dyskinesia. To transmit signals for emotion and movement, our nerves partially rely on dopamine and dopamine receptors. This system works fine until viruses, bacteria, or even medication interferes with the muscles ability to respond to these signals, or with the nerves ability to send them. Tardive dyskinesia is an often permanent neuromuscular disorder that typically occurs when certain types of medicines disrupt this communication system between the nerves and muscles. One type of medication that can destroy this system is metoclopramide. Metoclopramide is the main, active drug in a medicine called Reglan. Reglan is used to treat chronic acid reflux and gastroparesis by strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter as well as stimulating the muscle contractions that move food down through the stomach and into the intestines. Part of the reason that metoclopramide is able to stimulate this muscle movement is by acting as a dopamine receptor antagonist. However, when Reglan is used in heavy doses or for a prolonged amount of time, its dopamine receptor antagonizing capabilities can permanently destroy the communicative link between the muscles and nerves, resulting in twitchy, spasmodic movements that are out of your control. Tardive dyskinesia describes the condition in which these movements are mainly localized to your face. There are several symptoms of this disorder, which are all manifested by uncontrollable facial movements. These include:

Lip smacking

Tongue thrusting or rolling

Cheek puffing

Up-and-down jaw motions, such as chewing In some cases, tardive dyskinesia can spread to the limbs and extremities. Uncontrollable movements of digits and limbs can be worse when a person becomes emotionally overwrought or distressed. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for tardive dyskinesia, so it is usually permanent. However, some people can undergo therapy that helps them deal with the neuromuscular disorder. Also, researchers have found that alcohol and tobacco usage can aggravate the symptoms, as they also affect the dopamine communication channels. Additionally, women with lower estrogen levels, such as those who are post-menopausal, are at a higher risk for developing more severe cases of tardive dyskinesia. Living with tardive dyskinesia can prevent you from taking care of those you love. However, you may be a victim of medical malpractice, which can entitle you to financial compensation. To discuss your case, talk to a Reglan lawyer from Williams Kherkher today.

Overview of Tardive Dyskinesia

By: Joseph Devine

POST COMMENT

stone crusher overview A Quick Overview Of Fta Receivers Renault Grand Scenic - An Overview An Overview of Cravats Renault Megane World Series - An Overview A Helpful Overview of a Tummy Tuck Procedure in Los Angeles An Overview Of The Annual Mot A Brief Overview Of Criminal Law An Overview of the Accounting Cycle FitFlop Inuk Overview Strong Authentication Overview Winsock - A Brief Overview Of Winsock Net Firewall - A Brief Overview Of Net Firewalls