Post-anoxic myoclonus
Post-Anoxic Myoclonus: What to Know
Post-anoxic myoclonus is a rare, neurological condition caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain. It’s characterized by muscle jerks and twitches, which can be mild or severe. Post-anoxic myoclonus can be difficult to manage and may cause significant disability. In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about post-anoxic myoclonus.
Causes
Post-anoxic myoclonus is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain, most often due to cardiac arrest, stroke, or other events that interrupt the blood supply to the brain. Anoxic myoclonus may also occur when there is an overdose or overdose of certain drugs, or a poisoning.
Symptoms
Post-anoxic myoclonus causes sudden, involuntary muscle twitches or jerks, often on one side of the body. It can affect any area of the body, and the twitches may be mild or severe. Other symptoms may include:
- Muscle stiffness or tightness
- Difficulty walking or speaking
- Confusion
- Headache
- Abnormal movements such as dancing, jerking, twitching
Post-anoxic myoclonus can be difficult to diagnose, as it doesn’t always appear immediately after the event that causes it. It may not show up until weeks or months later. In some cases, it may be misdiagnosed if other causes are overlooked.
Treatment
Treatment for post-anoxic myoclonus focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the likelihood of further episodes. Treatment may include medications to reduce muscle spasms, physical therapy to improve motor control, and occupational therapy to help with activities of daily living. Some people may also benefit from a nerve block, where an injection is used to temporarily stop the twitching.
Outlook
Post-anoxic myoclonus can be difficult to manage and may cause significant disability. In some cases, the condition may improve with treatment, but it can also linger for years. People with post-anoxic myoclonus may be able to return to some of their normal activities. It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you.