Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, repetitive movements of various body parts. These movements can be disruptive and challenging to manage. They often impact a person’s quality of life, especially when the condition intensifies. Below, we have discussed the common warning signs, causes, available treatment options, and remedies for tardive dyskinesia. Understanding these factors can help patients and caregivers manage the condition better in the long run.

Signs and symptoms
As mentioned, tardive dyskinesia causes uncontrolled body movements. These movements can vary in intensity and may involve different body parts. Here’s a more detailed look at the symptoms:

Involuntary facial movements
Many patients experience facial symptoms, which often include:

Grimacing: Involuntary and exaggerated facial expressions, such as frowning or smirking.

Tongue protrusion: Repetitive, involuntary tongue movements, such as sticking the tongue out or pushing it against the inside of the cheek.

Rapid blinking: Frequent and uncontrolled blinking of the eyes that interfere with vision.

Limb and trunk movements
The disorder can also affect the limbs and trunk of the body, causing the following:

Jerking or twisting movements: Uncontrolled jerking or twisting motions of the arms, legs, or torso that make it difficult to sit or stand still.

Rocking or swaying: Involuntarily swaying back and forth or rocking from side to side.

Finger movements
Repetitive movements of the fingers are common:

Tapping: Tapping the fingers involuntarily, often against a surface or another body part.

Flicking: Rapid and uncontrolled flicking movements of the fingers.

Uncontrolled jaw movements
Tardive dyskinesia can affect the jaw, leading to:

Chewing motions: Moving the jaw as if chewing or grinding something, even without food in the mouth.

Lip smacking: Repetitive smacking of the lips against each other.

Tongue movements
Involuntary tongue movements can be particularly distressing:

Tongue thrusting: Forceful thrusting of the tongue forward or sideways, causing speech difficulties.

Lateral tongue movements: Moving the tongue from side to side within the mouth.

Vocal symptoms
Although less common, the disorder can affect speech and vocalization. For instance, one may unknowingly make grunting or snorting sounds.

These symptoms may be continuous or episodic, with periods of exacerbation and remission. Early detection and intervention are crucial for effectively managing tardive dyskinesia and improving an individual’s quality of life. If a person or someone they know experiences the symptoms, they must seek evaluation and guidance from a healthcare professional.

Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of tardive dyskinesia is not fully understood. However, experts say it can occur with the use of specific treatments prescribed for managing mental health disorders like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. However, not everyone using these treatments will develop tardive dyskinesia. The following factors increase one’s risk:

Long-term use of specific treatments
The risk of developing the condition increases if one uses the said treatments for an extended period.

High dosage
Higher doses of the treatment may elevate the risk.

Age
Older individuals, especially those over 55, are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

Gender
Tardive dyskinesia is more common in women than in men.

Underlying mental health conditions
The conditions for which the treatment is prescribed can also influence one’s risk.

Treatment and management
Managing tardive dyskinesia typically involves developing a strategy to minimize the symptoms and, if possible, discontinue the treatment contributing to the condition. Here are some treatment approaches:

Dosage adjustment
In some cases, reducing the dosage or switching to a different treatment with a lower risk of tardive dyskinesia may help alleviate symptoms.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
In severe cases, DBS may be considered. It involves implanting electrodes in the brain to regulate abnormal movements.

Besides the above, doctors may recommend treatments that regulate the levels of a neurotransmitter in the brain called dopamine, which plays a role in triggering and worsening the disorder. Experts may also recommend treatments to reduce the severity of involuntary movements.

Remedies and supportive care
While tardive dyskinesia has no cure, specific remedies and lifestyle modifications can help manage the symptoms better and improve the overall quality of life of individuals living with the condition:

Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help improve muscle control and coordination and reduce involuntary movements.

Speech therapy
This therapy can help address communication challenges in those with vocal symptoms.

Stress management
Since stress can exacerbate the symptoms, patients are recommended stress reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness.

Support groups
Joining a support group can provide patients with emotional support and practical coping strategies.

Nutrition
Following a balanced meal plan and staying well-hydrated can support overall health.

It’s important to note that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing tardive dyskinesia. Patients must work with an expert to get a clear picture of the condition and develop a personalized management plan that helps reduce their symptoms. After a thorough evaluation, the doctor may recommend suitable treatments and supportive care.