Catatonic Schizophrenia Treatment

Schizophrenia, a mental illness, is of many types, one of which is catatonic schizophrenia. Here, the sufferer of this condition has the tendency to interpret reality in a manner that may appear abnormal. While there are no specific causes of catatonic schizophrenia that have been determined for this condition, it is believed that it is a combination of hereditary and environment that is responsible for this condition. The most common cause is believed to be a brain dysfunction, where certain naturally occurring neurotransmitters may be altered, thereby affecting the brain function. Getting to a stage where you develop catatonic schizophrenia is not so common in nowadays, because the treatment options available for this condition are many. Furthermore, this condition may develop because of the presence of several other mental illnesses. In any case, after effective treatment, it is possible to lead a relatively normal and stable life. Before we look at the treatment methods that are undertaken for this purpose, let's delve into some symptoms that define this condition.

Symptoms

Those who suffer from this form of schizophrenia may belong to two extremes of a scale of behavior. While on one hand they may be extremely quiet and unable to respond to different stimuli, on the other, they may be hyperactive at all times while imitating movements and sounds of others. In the case of the former situation, it may be difficult for the sufferer of this condition to speak or move, and they may have the tendency of being rigid and continuously staring in one particular direction, without any awareness of their surroundings. This is known as catatonic stupor. Furthermore, the rigidity is at such an extreme that by some chance if the sufferer's hands are moved, they can remain in the same position for hours together. In the latter case, hyperactivity symbolizes this condition, where random activities and movements that have no meaning are performed such as turning in circles, flailing the arms or simply making loud and incomprehensible noises.

Those who suffer from catatonic schizophrenia also tend to be extremely resistant in that they fail to respond to any instructions to move or speak. On the other hand, they may have unusual habits such as repeating a particular word or sentence, and the compulsive need to see things arranged in a particular fashion. Imitating the speech or actions of those around them is another symptom that characterizes this condition.

Hallucinations and delusions, the inability to experience and express emotions, or to express emotions that are not suitable for a particular situation, poor personal hygiene, slurred speech, social isolation, extreme anger, and clumsiness are the secondary symptoms of this condition. They may experience bouts of these symptoms that usually cannot be eliminated without treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Individuals who suffer from catatonic schizophrenia will not be able to realize that they have a problem. The unusual habits and behavior patterns are noticed by those around them. As soon as any of the aforementioned symptoms are noticed, getting the right diagnosis and treatment is essential. The treatment for this condition is usually a life-long process. It is in most cases so effective that those who suffer from it, over a period of time begin to believe that they are fine and that they don't need to be treated any longer. However, it is likely that they can have a relapse of the symptoms. A psychiatrist may prescribe any one or a combination of the following methods of treatment for this condition.

• The prime method of treatment for this condition is by means of medication, that includes antidepressants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medicines, including some injections to relieve catatonic symptoms.
• Psychotherapy is another method of resolving the symptoms of this condition over time. It is one of the milder methods of treatment, and is not considered if the symptoms are very severe. In these sessions, patients are taught skills that will help them with communicating their needs and desires, working on relationships, and the necessity of continuing with treatment for gradual and sustained improvement in health. In some cases, family members are also included in therapy sessions, to understand the intensity of symptoms, to cope with them and are taught ways of dealing with them.
• Patients are also taught vocational skills, so as to be able to lead an independent life. Doctors also help patients in finding suitable related jobs so that they can survive independently. This helps them gain confidence in their abilities, and provides the inner motivation to overcome their condition.
• If a particular episode of catatonia is severe, the patient may be put through electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), where electric currents are sent to the brain to cause a seizure, thereby altering the brain chemistry to reduce the symptoms. This is an extreme measure that is taken when medicines fail to provide relief. Only after considering all the after effects of this treatment method should it be allowed by the caretaker of the patient.
• As a last resort, patients may be recommended hospitalization, so as to prevent any serious dangers due to an episode of catatonia, to the patients themselves and their family members. Hospitalization also ensures timely treatment, essential nutrition and the much-needed hygiene when suffering from this condition.

Though the methods of treating catatonic schizophrenia mentioned here have been proven effective time and again, the challenge lies in getting the patient to resort to treatment regularly. As mentioned earlier, it is a condition that requires life long treatment in most cases, and though patients may believe that they are absolutely fine, they are prone to a relapse that can reverse all the progress they have made through the long treatment process. As such, the support of friends and family in helping them stick to a treatment plan will help overcome the symptoms of this condition over time.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert advice.