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Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)

Psychiatric dimension of paralysis, blindness or seizures occurring without an organic cause.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)?

Conversion disorder (functional neurological symptom disorder) is the appearance of symptoms such as tremor, paralysis, vision loss, voice loss or pseudoseizures without an organic neurological disease. The symptoms are real; the patient does not produce them intentionally.

It is thought to develop when psychological stress, conflict or trauma affects nervous system function. Diagnosis first requires excluding organic causes; findings should then show internal inconsistencies that do not match neurological pathology.

Conversion disorder lies at the boundary between psychiatry and neurology and requires a multidisciplinary approach. With early recognition and appropriate treatment, symptoms can improve significantly.

Symptoms

Limb weakness or paralysis without an organic cause
Pseudoseizures (normal EEG, no epileptic activity)
Sudden vision loss or double vision
Voice loss or swallowing difficulty
Tremor and abnormal movements
Numbness and sensory changes

Risk Factors

Recent psychosocial stress or trauma
Dissociative tendencies
Witnessing serious illness in family or environment
History of personality disorder
Childhood physical or emotional abuse

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When unexplained neurological symptoms (paralysis, seizures, vision loss) appear for the first time
  • If symptoms do not resolve within days
  • Psychiatric evaluation after organic causes are excluded
  • If daily functioning is severely impaired

Treatment Methods

01
Psychotherapy (CBT, trauma-focused therapy)
02
Physical and neurological rehabilitation (for symptom management)
03
Psychoeducation: explaining the brain-body connection (helps acceptance of diagnosis)
04
Stress management and relaxation techniques
05
Treatment of underlying trauma or psychiatric disorder
06
Treatment delivered through neurology-psychiatry collaboration

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.