Functional neurological disorder (FND)

Overview

It's like a software problem rather than a hardware problem.

Stress can play a part but isn't always present.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Weakness or shaking without damage

Less common

• Seizure-like spells
• Walking trouble
• Numbness
• Speech changes

When to get medical care

Causes

Brain signal problem.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Stress
• Injury

Diagnosis

A neurologist examines.

The exam

Specific exam signs.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• EEG: For seizure-like spells.
• MRI:

Treatment

Rehab retrains the brain.

Self-care

• Learn about FND
• Physical therapy
• Therapy for stress
• Pace activities
• Use distraction during spells
• Work with a physical therapist

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Often improves faster with early rehab.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many improve.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Where can I find FND rehab?
• What rehab is available near me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Functional neurological disorder (FND)