FAHR’S SYNDROME

Fahr’s syndrome is a rare disorder in which calcium accumulates in the brain, most commonly in the basal ganglia, the area of the brain that controls movement. However, other areas of your brain may also be affected.

Furthermore, Fahr’s syndrome is most prevalent between the ages of 30 and 60, though it can occur at any age. Most of these individuals who acquire the disorder are usually in good health once they discover it. 

Also, this disorder can occur as you get older. However, it can often be caused by traits inherited from your parents. Your parents may also experience symptoms, but most of the time, they don’t.

SYMPTOMS

It’s possible that you don’t have any symptoms at all. If you do, it’s typically one of two types: movement-related or psychological. Depending on which part of your brain is affected, you will have different symptoms.

For the movement symptoms, it includes:

  • Walking unsteadily
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Clumsiness
  • Cramped muscles
  • Muscle stiffness, tremors, or lack of facial expression
  • Involuntary movements of legs or arms
  • Slurring your words
  • Stiff legs and arms

For the psychological symptoms, it includes:

  • Mood changes
  • Poor connection
  • Psychosis 
  • Dementia
  • Lapses in memory

Other symptoms are:

  • Dizziness or vertigo
  • Tiredness
  • Impotence 
  • Seizures
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Migraines

DIAGNOSIS

There is no specific measure that can diagnose the disease. Rather, doctors use various procedures to see if you have this disease.

You will likely be asked about your family history and symptoms. If one of your family members has this condition, your signs and symptoms are likely part of the same disorder. 

Moreover, imaging exams, such as X-rays and MRIs, can determine whether your brain has calcium accumulation. Besides, the most typical imaging test used is a CT scan, which integrates multiple X-rays to provide comprehensive images of various areas of the body. However, if there is calcification, they can’t often detect it if it is due to illness or anything else.

To rule out other issues, your doctor may perform urine and blood tests. If other symptoms indicate the disorder, your genes may also be tested.

TREATMENT

There is no specific treatment for Farh’s syndrome; however, the symptoms can be managed. Certain anti-epileptic drugs, for instance, can help if you suffer seizures. You can also use drugs to treat and prevent migraines. Nevertheless, see your doctor first to determine the best treatment for you. 

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]