People experiencing this symptom only slightly resist having their body or limbs moved into a different position.
The individual will then remain in this new position without making any attempts to reposition the body.
People who are experiencing catalepsy are less sensitive not only to pain but to touch in general.
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When a person is experiencing this symptom, they seem non-responsive and do not respond to speech.
The diagnosis that a doctor makes will depend on what other symptoms a person is experiencing.
For example, a person who experiences catalepsy along withecholalia,stupor, andmutismmight be diagnosed with catatonia.
This side effect can play a role in medication adherence for people with schizophrenia.
Catalepsy accompanied by waxy flexibility or rigid, immobile limbs was once a staple of stagehypnosis.
Treatment for Catalepsy
The treatment for catalepsy depends on the underlying condition that is causing this symptom.
Once a diagnosis has been made, healthcare providers will recommend treatments to address the underlying cause.
Cases of catalepsy sparked by stress or trauma often ease over time.
In such cases, psychotherapy may also be helpful.
Other treatments may be on the horizon as researchers learn more about the causes of catalepsy.
What Is the Striatum?
The striatum is an area of the brain that plays a vital role in facilitating voluntary movement.
The striatum directs information and instructions to the basal ganglia, which then initiates movement.
The use of this medication to treat this jot down of catalepsy was discovered by accident.
Researchers were using haloperidol and rapamycin in their studies of the striatum when they noticed the effect.
There is currently no FDA-approved treatment specifically for catalepsy.
It is often treated by addressing the underlying condition that is causing this symptom.
Coping With Catalepsy
If you believe someone is experiencing catalepsy, you should seek medical attention.
Catalepsy can be potentially dangerous and a person exhibiting signs should be evaluated to help ensure their safety.
A healthcare provider can then determine what might be contributing to this symptom and provide treatments that can help.
For catalepsy because of substances such as cocaine or ketamine, symptoms will usually resolve with time.
People who are experiencing withdrawal symptoms should consult a doctor, however.
