Causes of Conversion Disorder

This psychological disorder is caused by a stressful event or environment and promotes physical symptoms which can range in severity depending on the level of trauma. Emotional imbalance or hysteria can often trigger an episode which results in physical responses and are considered to be at the minor end of the spectrum.More severe experiences such as witnessing a tragedy or cases of abuse can be identified as extreme means which generate physical responses that can prove to be debilitating. Considering that conversion disorder is psychological in disposition, depression, and other common psychological disorders often accompany this illness. These factors compound the disorder and can lead to misdiagnosis. Repressed memories, inability to cope with stress, personality disorders, and phobias can also lead to episodeswhere the physical responses are prevalent. An example would be if someone has a fear of speaking in public, their voice would weaken or even cease to produce sound as a response to their fear.

Symptoms of Conversion Disorder

The symptoms of conversion disorder can vary in their severity and frequency. They can be categorized under many different symptoms and their longevity is also dependent on the physical appearance. Sensory issues are present in a loss of sensation such as tingling, blurred vision, or even blindness. The loss of sensation can appear in extremities or in the head and can be temporary or become a long lasting neuropathy. Paralysis can also occur which exceeds an episode of numbness or imbalance. Temporary blindness can be a symptom experienced in rare cases as well. Aside from sensory issues, motor dysfunction is also a concern as imbalance, delays in mobility, severe shaking, or even tics can be signs of conversion disorder. Visceral manifestations present themselves in uncontrollable fits of coughing, throat restrictions, and vomiting. Seizures, deafness, and even the inability to speak are all additional signs of the disorder and can be mistaken symptoms because of their sudden appearance.

Treatment of Conversion Disorder

The treatment for this neurological condition is usually conducted through counseling or psychotherapy. In order to alleviate the symptoms, a professional needs to understand the catalyst for the psychological duress which is causing the symptoms to compound. Physical therapy is often required as part of the rehabilitation of debilitating symptoms such as neuropathy or paralysis. Natural remedies can also aid in the treatment of conversion disorder and a few have been recognized as being useful. Under the guidance of a medical professional, lavender has been shown to relieve tension and St. Johns Wort serves as an anti-depressant. Valeriana and gelsemium both have effect on irritability and mood swings. Aside from these homeopathic remedies, a patient may find acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and massage therapy to be useful in an attempt to cope with side effects of this disorder.

Conversion disorder can often be mistaken for another illness because of its varying symptoms which mask the genuine origin for a patient. Efforts to treat this disorder begin by recognizing the symptoms as being indicators of a stressful event or condition and following up with natural remedies that will aid in the cure for this condition.