Functional neurological disorder (FND)

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a disorder of the way your nervous system functions (works). The disorder exists without there being a problem in the structure of your nervous system or brain. Some people describe it as a software problem rather than a hardware problem.

FND is not well understood by many people, even some doctors. It's a rare condition, but it's being recognised more often than it used to be.

If you have FND, you don't have control over any of your symptoms. Your symptoms are likely to come and go and may change over time. This can make it difficult for others to understand FND. It can also lead to frustration and a feeling that others don't believe you.

Video: What are functional neurological disorders?

Symptoms of FND are different for different people and can change over time. These are some of the more common symptoms:

• weakness or being unable to move part or all of your body
• uncontrollable movements of your limbs, or body, or both
• pain anywhere in your body
• seizures that are not due to epilepsy
• memory or thinking problems
• tiredness
• dizziness
• speech problems
• bladder or bowel problems, including not being able to hold on to your urine or poo.

FND can be difficult to diagnose. Your healthcare provider will ask lots of questions about your symptoms and your general health. They will consider any possible causes for your symptoms. This might mean they need to do some blood tests or other investigations.

FND itself cannot be diagnosed by blood tests. But it's important that your healthcare provider makes sure your symptoms are not caused by other conditions.

Your healthcare provider will do some specific tests involving moving your limbs in special ways. The results of these tests may help determine if you have FND.

If your healthcare provider thinks you might have FND, you will need to see a specialist for a definite diagnosis.

When you have any long-lasting condition, it's important to look after your general health, both physical and mental. Some things you can do are:

• eat well
• sleep well
• stay active
• get support from whānau (family) and friends
• seek out high quality information from trusted healthcare providers to help you understand your condition
• follow advice and instructions about therapy from healthcare providers.

To treat FND and improve or reduce your symptoms you may need to see several types of therapists. This will depend on your symptoms and if you have any other related conditions or possible causes.

• A physiotherapist for breathing, relaxation or exercise programmes.
• An occupational therapist to help with problems with daily living tasks caused by your symptoms.
• A speech and language therapist if you have speech or swallowing symptoms.
• A psychologist to help you understand your condition and things in your past that may have made you more likely to have FND. They may also help you learn how to overcome your symptoms.
• A pain team if chronic pain is one of your symptoms.