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Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)

What is FND?

Functional Neurological Disorder, otherwise known as FND, is a condition that affects how your brain sends and receives signals. Your brain and nerves may look normal on scans, but they do not work together as they should. This can cause real physical symptoms because the nervous system is not functioning properly.

FND can affect movement, sensation, speech and awareness. It can come on suddenly or develop over time. While some people have mild symptoms, others find that symptoms have a major impact on daily life. But with the right support and treatment, many see improvement.

Symptoms of FND

FND can cause a wide range of symptoms. These symptoms can vary from person to person, and may change over time.

Common symptoms include:

  • Tremors or shaking
  • Sudden weakness in an arm or leg
  • Problems with walking or balance
  • Muscle spasms or jerking movements
  • Non epileptic seizures
  • Numbness or altered sensation
  • Speech difficulties
  • Problems with memory or concentration
  • Feeling faint or episodes of unresponsiveness

You may notice that symptoms are worse during stress, tiredness or illness.

Causes of FND

FND is caused by a problem with how your brain functions, not by damage to the brain itself. It is sometimes described as a software problem rather than a hardware problem. There is rarely one single cause. For many people, several factors come together.

Possible contributing factors include:

  • Physical injury or illness
  • Ongoing pain
  • Emotional stress or trauma
  • Anxiety or low mood
  • Severe tiredness
  • A past neurological illness

Sometimes symptoms begin after a clear event, such as an accident or infection. In other cases, there is no obvious trigger.

How is a FND diagnosed?

FND is diagnosed through a neurological exam. This is a detailed assessment carried out by our consultants.

During the examination, your movement, strength, balance, reflexes and sensation are all checked. For example, you may be asked to move your arms and legs, walk a short distance, push or pull against gentle resistance, or follow a light with your eyes.

To confirm your FND diagnosis and rule out other conditions, our consultants may also refer you for a blood test, brain scan or an EEG.

Treatments for FND

Treatment for FND focuses on retraining your brain and nervous system. With the right approach, many people see improvement. Your FND treatment plan will depend on your symptoms and how they impact your life. 

Common FND treatments include:

  • Physiotherapy to improve movement, strength and balance
  • Psychological therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy
  • Support to manage stress, anxiety or low mood
  • Education about FND and how symptoms occur

Physiotherapy is often a key part of treatment, especially if you have weakness, tremor or problems with walking. Therapy can help you regain control of movement step by step. Our consultants will explain your diagnosis clearly and guide you towards the most suitable treatment for your needs.

When to get medical advice

You should seek medical advice if you develop new neurological symptoms, especially if they come on suddenly.

Get urgent medical help if you experience:

  • Sudden weakness on one side of your body
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Loss of vision
  • A first seizure
  • Severe and sudden headache

If you have already been diagnosed with FND and your symptoms change or become more frequent, you should arrange a review with one of our consultants. Ongoing support can help you manage flare ups and adjust your treatment if needed.

Why Choose Mid-Ulster Clinic

All of our patients are cared for by experienced consultants who understand the real life impact of Functional Neurological Disorder. You are given time to talk openly about your symptoms, and together we can agree on a clear plan of action without delay.

You can benefit from immediate appointments, meaning you avoid long waiting times that can delay treatment. We also offer flexible payment options to suit your needs.

Your consultation takes place in private and modern facilities, in our convenient central location in the Mid Ulster area of Northern Ireland.

  • Medically Reviewed

Last Reviewed By A Medical Professional On 01/29/24