negatively affected, contributing to the jerky movements seen in Tardive Dyskinesia.
Generally speaking, it takes at least several months before symptoms may arise. Some people can be on these medicines for years without problems, whereas others may experience uncontrollable tics in just days of use.
If you believe you have Tardive Dyskinesia from your medication, consult your doctor. Common medications that cause the condition are Haloperidol (Haldol), Fluphenazine, and Risperidone. Black women over the age of 55 have one of the highest risks of developing the disorder. Heavy alcohol and drug users are also at a pronounced risk.
RELATED: Living Well with Tardive Dyskinesia
How Your Doctor Diagnoses It
Because Tardive Dyskinesia may share symptoms with other neurological and movement disorders, it can be difficult to differentiate the various conditions.
This is okay. Your doctor can refer you to a specialist to rule out similar disorders like Parkinson’s disease and Tourette’s syndrome. Brain scans and blood tests are the most definitive ways to properly diagnose.
If changing your medication doesn’t ease your symptoms, various medicines may treat Tardive Dyskinesia. Supplementation with Vitamin E, melatonin, and Vitamin B6 may also be useful, although the research is not conclusive.
In most cases, the symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia can be managed with minor changes. However, sometimes the symptoms do become permanent. It’s important that your doctor routinely screen you for abnormal movements, especially at the year mark of any medication use.
Neurological events such as strokes and aneurysms must also be analyzed, as these can lead to similar symptoms.
When all is said and done, Tardive Dyskinesia does not have to be a life-changing condition. Patients are usually able to maintain normal lives and continue taking medication for their mental health.
Combining psychotherapy with your psychiatric medicine is also highly recommended. This can allow you to address your particular challenges better, and in the end, might even allow you to greatly reduce your medication use.