Akathisia is a term that comes from Greek and means "lack of rest". In the field of psychiatry and psychology, it refers to a syndrome that is characterized by the presence of psychomotor agitation, that is, an intense feeling of internal restlessness that manifests itself on a physical level. This condition can be extremely distressing for those who experience it, as it manifests itself in the form of an urge to constantly move, an inability to remain still, and a feeling of emotional discomfort.
What is akathisia?
Akathisia commonly occurs as a side effect of certain psychotropic medications, although it can also be a symptom of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. This condition can affect people of any age, although it is more prevalent in older adults and can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
Symptoms of akathisia
The symptoms of akathisia can vary in intensity and presentation, but the most common manifestations include:
- Constant restlessness: The feeling of internal turmoil makes the affected person feel an overwhelming need to move, which may manifest as an inability to sit still or sit still.
- Difficulty relaxing: Those who experience akathisia often have difficulty relaxing or falling asleep , which can cause irritability and anxiety.
- Emotional discomfort: The feeling of constant restlessness can trigger negative emotions such as irritability, frustration or despair.
- Compulsion to move: The affected person may feel a compulsion to move constantly, which can manifest itself in pacing from side to side, rocking, or changing positions repeatedly.
Causes of akathisia
Akathisia can have various causes, the most common being the following:
- Psychotropic medications: Akathisia is a common side effect of certain medications used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, such as antipsychotics and antidepressants. These drugs can alter the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which in turn can trigger symptoms of akathisia.
- Psychiatric disorders: Akathisia can also be a symptom of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder. In these cases, psychomotor agitation may be related to the alteration in brain function characteristic of these disorders.
- Genetic factors: Some research suggests that certain genetic variations may predispose to some people to develop akathisia in response to certain stimuli, such as the use of certain medications.
- Environmental factors: Factors such as chronic stress, exposure to traumatic situations, or substance abuse may contribute to the development of akathisia in some people.
In summary, akathisia is a syndrome characterized by psychomotor agitation, which may manifest as a persistent feeling of internal restlessness, difficulty relaxing, emotional discomfort and compulsion to move constantly. This condition can be triggered by the use of certain psychotropic medications, psychiatric disorders, genetic or environmental factors.