Where Does Dystonia Come from?

Dystonia may be inherited, acquired, or idiopathic (no known cause). Inherited disorders are transmitted genetically. In acquired forms, dystonia is caused by damage or degeneration of the brain (e.g. after a brain injury or stroke) or exposure to particular drugs.

How does dystonia start?

Some causes of acquired dystonia include birth injury (including hypoxia, a lack of oxygen to the brain, and neonatal brain hemorrhage), certain infections, reactions to certain drugs, heavy metal or carbon monoxide poisoning, trauma, or stroke.

Can dystonia be cured?

Dystonia has no cure, but you can do a number of things to minimize its effects: Sensory tricks to reduce spasms. Touching certain parts of your body may cause spasms to stop temporarily.