Extrapyramidal symptom facts for kids

Extrapyramidal syndrome (often called EPS) is a condition where people have movements they can't control. These movements often happen in the face and neck. For example, someone might smack their lips, move their tongue, blink a lot, or have sudden jerks in their head or fingers.

People with EPS might also find it hard to move their arms and legs easily. Their speech can sometimes sound slurred, making it difficult to understand them.

This condition happens when a chemical in the brain called dopamine isn't working quite right. Dopamine helps control movement. EPS is usually a side effect of certain medicines. It can also be caused by conditions like Parkinson's disease or a head injury.

What is Extrapyramidal Syndrome?

Extrapyramidal syndrome causes muscles to move on their own, without the person trying to move them. These are called involuntary movements. It's like your body has a mind of its own for a moment.

These movements can show up in different ways. Someone might have quick, repeated blinks, or their tongue might move around a lot. Sometimes, their head or fingers might twitch or jerk suddenly.

It can also make everyday movements harder. Walking might feel stiff, or arms and legs might not move smoothly. Talking can also be tricky, as the muscles needed for speech might not work as usual.

What Causes Extrapyramidal Syndrome?

The main reason EPS happens is because of a problem with dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a very important chemical that helps send messages between brain cells. One of its big jobs is to help control how we move.

When dopamine levels are out of balance, it can lead to these uncontrolled movements.

Medicines and EPS

Most often, EPS is a side effect of certain medicines. Some medicines, especially those used to treat mental health conditions, can affect how dopamine works in the brain. When this happens, it can cause EPS symptoms.

It's important for doctors to know about these side effects. They can often adjust the medicine or give other treatments to help.

Other Causes

While medicines are the most common cause, EPS can also be linked to other health issues. For example, Parkinson's disease is a condition that affects movement and involves dopamine. People with Parkinson's can have similar movement problems.

Sometimes, a serious head injury can also lead to EPS. This is because a head injury can damage parts of the brain that control movement and dopamine levels.

How is Extrapyramidal Syndrome Managed?

If someone shows signs of EPS, it's important to tell a doctor right away. The doctor can figure out what's causing it.

Often, if a medicine is causing EPS, the doctor might change the dose or switch to a different medicine. There are also other medicines that can help balance the dopamine and reduce the involuntary movements.

With the right help, many people with EPS can find ways to manage their symptoms. This helps them feel more comfortable and have better control over their movements.

See also

In Spanish: Enfermedades del sistema extrapiramidal para niños