The most serious problem with akathisia is that it is often not detected early. Sometimes confused with other conditions and symptoms overlooked
Akathisia is defined as a movement disorder characterized by great difficulty remaining still, accompanied by a subjective feeling of restlessness. If the person does not move, he experiences anguish or an itching sensation, for example.
This syndrome affects the quality of life in a noticeable way. It has been associated with aggressive behavior and even with an increased risk of suicide.
In older adults it is a risk factor for falls. Akathisia is estimated to be present in 20-75% of people taking antipsychotics.
Depending on the moment in which the condition appears, it can be of different types:
- Acute: arises soon after starting a medicine and lasts less than 6 months.
- Chronic: when it lasts more than 6 months.
- Late: appears months or years after starting the drug in question.
- By withdrawal: it occurs during the 6 weeks after abandoning a medication.
Akathisia is sometimes confused with another disorder called tardive dyskinesia. The latter is also a side effect of antipsychotics.
The difference between one and the other is that, in dyskinesia, the person is not aware that they are moving. In akathisia yes.