Getty Images / Rune Johansen
What Is Catatonia?
Catatonia is a psychomotor disorder that affects both speech and behavior functions.
It can manifest as a state of stupor and unresponsiveness or as restlessness, agitation, and confusion.
Getty Images / Rune Johansen
Catatonia was first identified as a discrete syndrome in 1874 by Karl Kahlbaum.
However, some experts believe that many cases go unreported.
There are three main forms of catatonia: akinetic, hyperkinetic, and malignant catatonia.
Catatonia used to be closely linked toschizophrenia.
In fact, until recently, it was considered a subtype of schizophrenia.
But its now more commonly associated with a broad spectrum of medical and psychiatric illnesses, particularly mood disorders.
Catatonia Symptoms
The symptoms of catatonia will vary depending on the severity and punch in.
However, there are some signs and symptoms that will be common across cases of catatonia.
Some signs occur more frequently.
Causes of Catatonia
The exact cause of catatonia is not clear.
Diagnosing Catatonia
Diagnosing catatonia is based on clinical observations.
Practitioners can use a scale to diagnose catatonia.
One of the most commonly used scales is the Bush-Francis Catatonia Rating Scale.
Catatonia was separated from schizophrenia in the DSM-5.
This allowed catatonia syndrome to be diagnosed as a specifier to a variety of major mental and medical disorders.
This has made it easier for practitioners to diagnose the condition.
Coping With Catatonia
Catatonia is a serious medical condition that requires prompt medical treatment.
In some cases, catatonia can be serious and life-threatening.
However, with a proper diagnosis and the right treatment plan, the prognosis is good.
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