What symptoms are characteristic of akathisia?

What symptoms are characteristic of akathisia?

• A. Severe muscle spasms in the face and neck
• B. Persistent involuntary movements of the limbs
• C. Restlessness and subjective sense of inability to stay still
• D. Elevated body temperature and altered consciousness

Answer: (C)

Akathisia is primarily characterized by a subjective feeling of inner restlessness and an uncontrollable need to be in motion. Patients often describe a sensation that compels them to keep moving, or an overwhelming anxiety that can make it difficult to remain seated or still. This condition is commonly associated with certain medications, particularly antipsychotics, and can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. The correct answer highlights the core symptom of akathisia, which distinguishes it from other movement disorders. While severe muscle spasms and involuntary movements relate to conditions like dystonia or tardive dyskinesia, and elevated body temperature paired with altered consciousness may indicate a serious condition like neuroleptic malignant syndrome, these are not symptoms of akathisia specifically. Understanding this can help in recognizing and managing akathisia more effectively in clinical practice.

Akathisia is primarily characterized by a subjective feeling of inner restlessness and an uncontrollable need to be in motion. Patients often describe a sensation that compels them to keep moving, or an overwhelming anxiety that can make it difficult to remain seated or still. This condition is commonly associated with certain medications, particularly antipsychotics, and can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.

The correct answer highlights the core symptom of akathisia, which distinguishes it from other movement disorders. While severe muscle spasms and involuntary movements relate to conditions like dystonia or tardive dyskinesia, and elevated body temperature paired with altered consciousness may indicate a serious condition like neuroleptic malignant syndrome, these are not symptoms of akathisia specifically. Understanding this can help in recognizing and managing akathisia more effectively in clinical practice.