Coping with Alien Hand Syndrome: rare neurological condition
There are typical mental
ailments that fall under rare group. Alien hand syndrome is one of the
neurological condition that causes one hand to act voluntary. In alien hand
syndrome, a person loses control of his or her hand and act independently. It
labels involuntary complex goal-directed activity of one limb. It can greatly
affect children, but alien hand syndrome is also found in adults.
Alien hand syndrome has been linked with several abnormal
involuntary movements when different regions of the brain, such as the corpus
callosum, parietal region, or frontal region, are involved. Basically, Alien hand syndrome is related to
brain surgeries that isolate the two hemispheres of the brain. This may involve
a cut along the corpus callosum. The corpus callosum divides the brain
hemispheres and permits for communication between the two sides. Surgeries to
treat epilepsy affect the brain in this way. Lesions have also been found in
the anterior cingulate cortex, posterior parietal cortex, and supplementary
motor cortex areas of the brain in those with the condition.
Major symptom of alien hand syndrome is the powerlessness
to control the hand because it acts freely. The affected hand may move
unwillingly and perform goal-directed tasks and actions. The hand moves without
cognitive control or cognizance.
Psychiatrist or medical professionals diagnose alien hand
syndrome through observation and evaluation. Unfortunately, there are no
treatment options available presently to cure this rare mental syndrome. Only
symptomatic condition can be managed by muscle control therapies such as
botulinum toxin (Botox) and neuromuscular blocking agents. Other therapeutic
procedures for example Mirror box therapy, cognitive therapy techniques, and
learning task behavioural therapies are helpful in improving the condition of
patient suffering from alien hand syndrome.
In essence, alien hand syndrome is an exceptional
neurological state of a person due to several cerebral damages. Diagnosis of
this rare syndrome is challenging and no cure of this disorder. Patients can
only cope up this syndrome through cognitive therapy and muscle control
techniques.
Important: This article is developed through environmental information, academic experience and personal view of writer. Writer is not responsible for any disagreement.
Important: This article is developed through environmental information, academic experience and personal view of writer. Writer is not responsible for any disagreement.
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