You are showing signs of functional neurological system disorder. This was previously known as conversion disorder. It happens when stress or conflict triggers physical symptoms. It may in some ways look like a neurological disorder, but is not. Symptoms include:
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Not being able to move parts of your body
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Sensory changes like a feeling of numbness or "pins and needles"
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Not being able to stand or walk normally
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Movement of your body that feels out of your control
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Loss of normal speech, sight, or hearing
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Trouble urinating
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Trouble swallowing
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Tremors (shaking) or nonepileptic seizures (convulsions). You may hear these called pseudoseizures.
In the ER, you will probably have some tests done to make sure there are no other causes of your symptoms. You may also be given medicines to help relax you. The main treatment for functional neurological system disorder is counseling. This can be arranged through your healthcare provider. Our staff may also give you referrals to therapists or counselors you can talk to.
Home care
If you have been given medicine, take it as you have been told to by the healthcare provider or hospital staff.
Tell each of your healthcare providers about all of the prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take. Certain supplements interact with medicines and may result in dangerous side effects. Ask your pharmacist when you have questions about medicine interactions.
Symptoms of functional neurological system disorder most often improve over a period of a few weeks without specific medicine. The main treatment for this disorder is education about the diagnosis, and psychotherapy or counseling. This can include individual and group therapy. Antidepressant medicines may be used to treat this disorder when it continues even with therapy. They may also be used to treat anxiety or depression that exists at the same time. Other treatments that might help include physical therapy, hypnosis, and relaxation.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
It's important to have a trusting, supportive relationship with your primary healthcare provider. This is so any questions or concerns you have about the tests can be addressed.
Call 911
Call
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Trouble breathing
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Very confused
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Very drowsy or trouble waking up
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Fainting or loss of consciousness
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Rapid heart rate
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Seizure
When to seek medical advice
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:
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Your symptoms get worse or do not improve over time
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New symptoms
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Desire to harm yourself or others.
Call 988
If you have a desire to harm yourself or someone else, call or text 988 or 800-273-TALK (8255) right away. You will be connected to trained counselors who are part of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. An online chat choice is also available. This service is free and available 24/7.
