Difficulty in performing voluntary muscle movements is known as dyskinesia. The severity of the disorder can range from mild to severe and can affect any part of the body or the entire body. Excessive use of the medication called levodopa is the main cause of developing dyskinesia. This medication is usually used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Other causes are stress, anger, excitement, lack of sleep, and a high-protein diet.

Shaky body movement, bobbing of the head, twitching, and restlessness are some symptoms exhibited by people suffering from dyskinesia. This disorder can be classified into three types:

• Tardive dyskinesia caused due to prolonged use of antipsychotic medications. Uncontrolled facial expressions are one of its main characteristics.
• Paroxysmal dyskinesia is caused due to an abnormal function in the brain and can cause involuntary movements in any part of the body.
• Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is an inherited disorder that affects the ciliary. The ciliary is responsible for regulating the respiratory system and plays an important role in maintaining fertility.

Although dyskinesia cannot be cured completely, lifestyle tips for dyskinesia can help reduce the severity of symptoms and allow the patient to live a normal life.

1. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle

Creating a balanced lifestyle is one of the excellent lifestyle tips for dyskinesia as it helps in reducing stress and promotes the healthy development of the mind and body. Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga or getting involved in an activity such as painting or learning music can also help in reducing stress. Good sleep is also very effective in managing symptoms of dyskinesia.

2. Healthy diet

Consuming a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is a beneficial tip for dyskinesia and other disorders too. A healthy diet helps in the effective functioning of the immune system and aids in the elimination of toxins from the body. A lack of nutrients in the body also affects motor skills, which is an important factor contributing to dyskinesia. Although there is no particular diet for dyskinesia, avoiding protein-rich food is often suggested.

3. Essential oils

Dyskinesia can sometimes also interfere with the digestion process. Using essential oils in one’s diet helps in reducing digestion problems. Essential oils can also be used as a diffuser as they help in relaxing the mind and reducing stress.

4. Medication

As levodopa is the main cause of dyskinesia, one should consult a specialist and try other medication options or try and reduce the dose of Levodopa. This should strictly be done under a specialist’s guidance.

5. Exercising

Swimming, rowing, and aerobic exercises help in improving motor skills and thus relieve symptoms of dyskinesia. Exercising regularly is an effective lifestyle tip for dyskinesia as it helps in keeping the body fit and in maintaining a healthy weight.

6. Engage with family and friends

It is very important to maintain healthy relationships with friends and family, as they will help you cope with this condition and support you through it.

7. Maintaining the time for medications

Try to maintain a time schedule for taking medication, as it helps in preventing the effect of medications from wearing off.