Catatonic Schizophrenia Causes Symptoms Information With Treatment
By Juliet Cohen
Schizophrenia results from problems with early brain development. The way brain cells communicate with each other through nerve pathways. Complete lack of expressed emotion is sometimes seen, as is an apparent indifference, anhedonia (the lack of pleasure ), and avolition (a lack of motivation). Too many or too few connections in the important pathways of emotional regulation may lead to psychotic symptoms. More specifically, certain areas of the brain that are rich in the chemical dopamine seem to be affected most often in schizophrenia.
The contributing factors associated with the development of these brain-pathway problems are controversial and are being carefully investigated. Some of the areas of current research include risk-associated genes, exposure to certain viruses or malnutrition in the womb, and stressful childhood environments in genetically susceptible children. People with catatonic schizophrenia may also need services, supervision or specialized care particularly when response to treatment isn’t optimal. The goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms of schizophrenia and to decrease the chances of a relapse, or return of symptoms.
