Question 1

Are my symptoms real or am I making them up?

Accepted Answer

Your symptoms are absolutely real and not something you're consciously creating. Conversion disorder involves genuine neurological symptoms that you cannot control, even though medical tests don't show a structural cause. Your brain is producing these symptoms involuntarily, often in response to psychological stress.

Question 2

Does having conversion disorder mean it's 'all in my head'?

Accepted Answer

Not in the way most people use that phrase. Your symptoms originate from how your brain is processing information and stress, but they manifest as very real physical problems. It's not imaginary or invented—it's a genuine neurological dysfunction that happens to have psychological triggers.

Question 3

Can conversion disorder symptoms be cured?

Accepted Answer

Many people with conversion disorder experience significant improvement or complete recovery, especially with appropriate treatment. Symptoms that have a sudden onset and short duration tend to have better outcomes. Treatment combining psychotherapy, physical rehabilitation, and addressing underlying stressors can help restore normal function.

Question 4

Why do doctors think I have conversion disorder if all my tests are normal?

Accepted Answer

Normal medical tests help rule out structural problems, but doctors also look for positive signs of functional neurological symptoms during physical examination. These specific signs (like Hoover's sign for leg weakness or inconsistent sensory patterns) indicate conversion disorder rather than simply an absence of other findings.

Question 5

Will people think I'm faking if I tell them I have conversion disorder?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, misunderstanding about conversion disorder is common. It helps to explain that it's a recognized medical condition where the brain creates real symptoms involuntarily, similar to how stress can cause a stress headache or upset stomach—but more severe. You're not faking; your nervous system is genuinely malfunctioning.

Question 6

Can I have conversion disorder even if I don't feel stressed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many people with conversion disorder don't initially recognize psychological stress or trauma. Sometimes stress is unconscious or you've become so adapted to it that it feels normal. The connection between stress and symptoms may only become clear during therapy.

Question 7

What if I have a 'real' neurological disease that doctors are missing?

Accepted Answer

This is a common concern. It's important to work with a neurologist who carefully evaluates for both functional and structural causes. If symptoms change significantly, worsen rapidly, or new symptoms appear, further evaluation may be appropriate. A thorough initial workup and ongoing monitoring help ensure nothing is missed.

Question 8

Can children have conversion disorder?

Accepted Answer

Yes, though it's less common in young children. Adolescents can develop conversion disorder, often related to school stress, family conflict, or trauma. In children, symptoms like gait problems or non-epileptic seizures are most common.

Question 9

Is conversion disorder the same as hysteria?

Accepted Answer

Conversion disorder was historically called 'hysteria,' but that term is outdated and stigmatizing. Modern understanding recognizes conversion disorder as a legitimate neurological condition with psychological triggers, not the sexist concept of 'hysteria' from the past.

Question 10

Do I need to see a neurologist or a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

Ideally both. A neurologist can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, while a mental health professional can address underlying psychological factors and provide therapy. Collaboration between medical and mental health providers leads to the best outcomes.

Question 11

Can stress really cause paralysis or blindness?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The brain's control of motor and sensory function can be disrupted by psychological factors. This isn't fully understood, but research shows altered brain activity patterns in regions controlling movement and sensation. It's similar to how stage fright can cause someone's mind to go blank—a psychological trigger causing a real functional impairment.

Question 12

Will my symptoms come back even if they go away?

Accepted Answer

There's a possibility of recurrence, especially if underlying psychological issues aren't addressed or if you experience new significant stressors. However, learning coping strategies, addressing trauma, and understanding your triggers can significantly reduce the risk of symptoms returning.

Question 13

Can medication help conversion disorder?

Accepted Answer

There's no medication that directly treats conversion disorder symptoms. However, if you have comorbid conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD, treating those with medication may help. The primary treatments are psychotherapy and physical rehabilitation.

Question 14

How long does conversion disorder usually last?

Accepted Answer

Duration varies widely. Some people recover within weeks or months, especially with early treatment. Others may have symptoms for years. Acute onset and shorter initial duration tend to predict better outcomes, while chronic symptoms and ongoing stressors may lead to persistence.

Question 15

Can I work or go to school with conversion disorder?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the severity of your symptoms and their impact on functioning. Some people need temporary medical leave while undergoing treatment. Others can continue with accommodations. As symptoms improve with treatment, most people can return to normal activities.

Question 16

What is the difference between conversion disorder and malingering?

Accepted Answer

Malingering involves intentionally faking symptoms for external gain like avoiding work or obtaining disability benefits. Conversion disorder symptoms are involuntary and not consciously produced. People with conversion disorder genuinely experience their symptoms and want to get better.

Question 17

Can trauma cause conversion disorder even years later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Past trauma, even from childhood, can contribute to conversion disorder developing in adulthood, particularly when current stressors trigger unresolved trauma responses. The onset may coincide with reminders of past trauma or when coping mechanisms become overwhelmed.

Question 18

What should I tell family members who don't believe my symptoms are real?

Accepted Answer

Explain that conversion disorder is a documented medical condition where the brain creates involuntary neurological symptoms, like how anxiety causes a real racing heart. You can share educational materials from reputable sources or invite them to a doctor's appointment to hear the explanation directly from your healthcare provider.

Question 19

Can physical therapy really help if the problem is psychological?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Physical therapy is a key treatment for motor symptoms in conversion disorder. It helps retrain normal movement patterns and can interrupt abnormal movement patterns the brain has learned. Combined with psychotherapy addressing underlying factors, it's often very effective.

Question 20

Is conversion disorder considered a disability?

Accepted Answer

It can be, depending on severity and impact on functioning. If symptoms significantly impair your ability to work or perform daily activities, you may qualify for temporary or longer-term disability accommodations or benefits. This is assessed on an individual basis.

Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)

Overview

Description

Prevalence

Age of Onset

DSM-5 Code

ICD-10 Code

Overview

What It Looks Like

Diagnostic Criteria

Symptoms

Common Reactions

Lived Experience

Treatment

FAQs

When to Seek Help

Seeking Help for Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)?

Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)

Overview

Description

Prevalence

Age of Onset

DSM-5 Code

ICD-10 Code

Overview

What It Looks Like

Diagnostic Criteria

Symptoms

Common Reactions

Lived Experience

Treatment

FAQs

When to Seek Help

Seeking Help for Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)?