What does NMS mean in DISEASES
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening disorder that can occur as a reaction to some medications used to treat psychosis. NMS is characterized by muscle rigidity, fever, changes in mental status, and autonomic dysfunction. It is important for health care providers and anyone taking antipsychotic medications to be aware of the signs and symptoms of NMS as well as its potential risk factors so that it can be accurately diagnosed and properly treated.
NMS meaning in Diseases in Medical
NMS mostly used in an acronym Diseases in Category Medical that means Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Shorthand: NMS,
Full Form: Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
For more information of "Neuroleptic malignant syndrome", see the section below.
What is NMS?
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a serious neurological disorder that can manifest after starting or increasing doses of antipsychotic medications, such as haloperidol and risperidone. It occurs in approximately 5% of people taking these medications and can be fatal if left untreated.
The exact cause of NMS remains unknown, but it likely results from an interaction between the blockage of dopamine receptors by neuroleptics (antipsychotics) and the resulting activation of other neurotransmitters or hormones in the brain that are involved in muscle contraction. Symptoms usually begin within 2-14 days after starting or increasing the dose of antipsychotics, although they may develop several weeks later.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of NMS is severe muscle rigidity throughout the body. This stiffness may be so severe that it prevents normal movements such as walking or talking. Other symptoms can include high fever, changes in mental status (such as confusion or agitation), difficulty swallowing, abnormal changes in blood pressure and heart rate, labored breathing, tremors, sweating and an increased risk for developing rhabdomyolysis (the destruction of muscle tissue). Some people may also experience insomnia, hallucinations or delusions.
If these symptoms occur suddenly they should not be ignored; medical attention should be sought right away because if left untreated NMS can quickly become life-threatening due to respiratory failure or kidney damage caused by rhabdomyolysis.
Who Is At Risk?
People taking antipsychotic medications carry the highest risk for developing Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome; however there are certain groups who have an increased chance for developing this disorder including those who are elderly; those with renal insufficiency; those with advanced Parkinson’s disease; those on lithium therapy; women; smokers; people with underlying medical conditions like diabetes mellitus; and those with histories of alcohol abuse or drug toxicity.
Diagnosis
NMS is typically diagnosed based on clinical presentation—in other words by looking at symptoms and ruling out other conditions which might have similar presentations—however laboratory tests such as liver function tests, creatine kinase levels (CK), urinalysis electrolyte levels and complete blood count may be ordered to rule out other conditions like heat stroke or infection which have similar signs and symptoms but very different treatments than neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
Treatment
Treatment for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome typically involves discontinuing any medication suspected to be causing the condition while providing supportive care such as hydration, symptom management with antipyretics (to lower fever), anticholinergics (to relax stiff muscles) or benzodiazepines (to reduce anxiety). In more severe cases dantrolene—a medication specifically used to treat NMS—may also be prescribed along with intensive medical monitoring until all signs have resolved.
Essential Questions and Answers on Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in "MEDICAL»DISEASES"
What is Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect of certain medications used to treat psychotic disorders. NMS can be caused by antipsychotic, or neuroleptic medications, such as those taken to treat symptoms of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
What are the symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
Symptoms of NMS may include an increased heart rate and blood pressure; altered mental status; confusion; muscle rigidity; difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing; tremors; sweating; and fever.
How is Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome diagnosed?
NMS is usually diagnosed through an evaluation that includes physical examination, laboratory tests like blood work and urine analysis, and imaging studies such as a computed tomography scan (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor may also ask questions about your medical history, including current medications and any other relevant information.
What are the risk factors for developing Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
Risk factors for developing NMS include being older than 40 years old, taking multiple antipsychotic medications at once, having recently changed medications, having hyperthermia (high body temperature), and having kidney failure.
Is there a way to prevent Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
One way to reduce the risk of developing NMS is to carefully monitor patients taking antipsychotics for signs and symptoms of the condition. It's also important that all parties involved in the patient's care are aware of the potential risks associated with long-term use of these medications. Other preventive measures include avoiding high doses and using lower doses when possible.
Is there a treatment for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
Treatment for NMS typically involves reducing or stopping the medication causing it, as well as supportive care measures such as fluids to keep you hydrated and treating any underlying medical conditions. Antipyretic drugs like ibuprofen may also be given to reduce fever. In some cases dopamine agonists may also be used to help relieve muscle stiffness.
How long does it take for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome symptoms to improve?
The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person but generally speaking most symptoms should start improving within 24 hours after diagnosis and treatment begins. However, recovery can take time so it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider regularly during this period.
Final Words:
Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare but potentially deadly reaction to certain types of antipsychotic medications commonly used for treating psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is important that anyone taking these medications recognize its signs so that proper treatment can begin immediately if necessary –as early diagnosis and intervention significantly increase chances for recovery without any long term complications.
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