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Diseases » Paralysis » Causes

Causes of Paralysis



Contents

List of causes of Paralysis

Following is a list of causes or underlying conditions (see also Misdiagnosis of underlying causes of Paralysis) that could possibly cause Paralysis includes:

More causes: see full list of causes for Paralysis symptoms

Paralysis as a complication of other conditions:

Other conditions that might have Paralysis as a complication may, potentially, be an underlying cause of Paralysis. Our database lists the following as having Paralysis as a complication of that condition:

Paralysis as a symptom:

Conditions listing Paralysis as a symptom may also be potential underlying causes of Paralysis. Our database lists the following as having Paralysis as a symptom of that condition:

Medications or substances causing Paralysis:

The following drugs, medications, substances or toxins are some of the possible causes of Paralysis as a symptom. This list is incomplete and various other drugs or substances may cause your symptoms. Always advise your doctor of any medications or treatments you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter, supplements, herbal or alternative treatments.

Read more about medication causes of Paralysis


Medical news summaries relating to Paralysis:

The following medical news items are relevant to causes of Paralysis:

Related information on causes of Paralysis:

As with all medical conditions, there may be many causal factors. Further relevant information on causes of Paralysis may be found in:

Causes of Paralysis: Online Medical Books

16 MEDICAL BOOKS ONLINE! Review excerpts from medical books online, free, without registration, for more information about the causes of Paralysis.

Facial Paralysis & Bell's Palsy: Differential Diagnosis
(In a Page: Signs and Symptoms)

  • Bell's palsy (idiopathic facial palsy of lower motor neuron type)
    –Most common cause of facial nerve paralysis
  • Lyme disease
  • Tumors that invade the temporal bone (e.g., cholesteatoma, carotid body tumor)
  • Ramsay Hunt's syndrome
    –Association of facial palsy with herpes zoster eruption in the pharynx and external auditory canal
    –Eighth cranial nerve often affected as well
    • Acoustic neuroma
      –May compress the facial nerve
    • Pontine lesions
      –Secondary to infarcts, demyelinating processes, or tumors
      –Signs of brainstem involvement may be associated
    • Facial diplegia or bilateral facial palsy
      –Guillain-Barré syndrome (associated with ascending areflexic motor paralysis)
      –Heerfordt's syndrome (a form of sarcoidosis; also known as uveoparotid fever)
  • Diabetic neuropathy
  • Leprosy
    • Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome
      –Recurrent facial palsy, labial edema, and tongue plication
  • Sarcoidosis

    • » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: In a Page: Signs and Symptoms, 2004

    Facial Paralysis: Differential Diagnosis
    (In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms)

    Acquired

    • Bell palsy
      –A diagnosis of exclusion; 40% of cases
    • Acute otitis media
      –From erosion or dehiscence of facial canal
    • Chronic otitis media
      –Nerve compression from granulation tissue
      • Herpes zoster oticus
        –Often infects eighth nerve as well, with hearing loss and vertigo
    • Lyme disease
      –Usually several weeks after inoculation
      • Tumors
        –Temporal bone leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma of head and neck
    • Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome
      –Relapsing alternating facial paralysis
      –Recurrent facial edema
      –Fissured tongue
      • Temporal bone fracture
        –Although most cases involve longitudinal fractures, transverse may also result in hearing loss and vertigo
    • Facial wounds
      –Early repair if clean wound
      –Tag nerve for delayed repair if dirty wound
      • Iatrogenic
        –After otologic or parotid surgery

      Congenital
    • Traumatic (associated with prolonged and difficult labor)
    • Inherited disorders
      –Myotonic dystrophy: Progressive muscle weakness, facial paresis at birth
      –Albers-Schönberg disease: Osteopetrosis increases bone density, compresses nerve
      • Developmental abnormalities
        –Möbius syndrome: Facial paralysis with 6th cranial nerve palsy
        –Association with coloboma, heart defect, choanal atresia, genital hypoplasia, ear anomalies (CHARGE)
        –Goldenhar syndrome, also known as oculoauriculovertebral (OAV) syndrome: First and second branchial arch abnormalities
        –Asymmetric crying facies: Also called congenital unilateral lower lip palsy (CULLP)

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: In A Page: Pediatric Signs and Symptoms, 2007

    Analgesia: Medical causes
    (Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))

    ❑ Anterior cord syndrome. With anterior cord syndrome, analgesia and thermanesthesia occur bilaterally below the level of the lesion, along with flaccid paralysis and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes.

    ❑ Central cord syndrome. Typically, analgesia and thermanesthesia occur bilaterally in several dermatomes, in many cases extending in a capelike fashion over the arms, back, and shoulders. Early weakness in the hands progresses to weakness and muscle spasms in the arms and shoulder girdle. Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes and spastic weakness of the legs may develop. However, if the lesion affects the lumbar spine, hypoactive deep tendon reflexes and flaccid weakness may persist in the legs.

    With brain stem involvement, additional findings include facial analgesia and thermanesthesia, vertigo, nystagmus, atrophy of the tongue, and dysarthria. The patient may also have dysphagia, urine retention, anhidrosis, decreased intestinal motility, and hyperkeratosis.

    ❑ Spinal cord hemisection. Contralateral analgesia and thermanesthesia occur below the level of the lesion. In addition, loss of proprioception, spastic paralysis, and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes develop ipsilaterally. The patient may also experience urine retention with overflow incontinence.

    Other causes

    ❑ Drugs. Analgesia may occur with use of a topical or local anesthetic, although numbness and tingling are more common.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006

    Paralysis: Medical causes
    (Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition))

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

    ALS is an invariably fatal disorder that produces spastic or flaccid paralysis in the body’s major muscle groups, eventually progressing to total paralysis. Earlier findings include progressive muscle weakness, fasciculations, and muscle atrophy, usually beginning in the arms and hands. Cramping and hyperreflexia are also common. Involvement of respiratory muscles and the brain stem produces dyspnea and possibly respiratory distress. Progressive cranial nerve paralysis causes dysarthria, dysphagial drooling, choking, and difficulty chewing.

    Bell’s palsy

    Bell’s palsy, a disease of CN VII, causes transient, unilateral facial muscle paralysis. The affected muscles sag, and eyelid closure is impossible. Other signs include increased tearing, drooling, and a diminished or absent corneal reflex.

    Botulism

    Botulism is a bacterial toxin infection that can cause rapidly descending muscle weakness that progresses to paralysis within 2 to 4 days after the ingestion of contaminated food. Respiratory muscle paralysis leads to dyspnea and respiratory arrest. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred or double vision, bilateral mydriasis, dysarthria, and dysphagia are some early findings.

    Brain abscess

    Advanced abscess in the frontal or temporal lobe can cause hemiplegia accompanied by other late findings, such as ocular disturbances, unequal pupils, a decreased LOC, ataxia, tremors, and signs of infection.

    Brain tumor

    A tumor affecting the motor cortex of the frontal lobe may cause contralateral hemiparesis that progresses to hemiplegia. The onset is gradual, but paralysis is permanent without treatment. In early stages, a frontal headache and behavioral changes may be the only indicators. Eventually, seizures, aphasia, and signs of increased ICP (a decreased LOC and vomiting) develop.

    Conversion disorder

    Hysterical paralysis, a classic symptom of conversion disorder, is characterized by the loss of voluntary movement with no obvious physical cause. It can affect any muscle group, appears and disappears unpredictably, and may occur with histrionic behavior (manipulative, dramatic, vain, irrational) or a strange indifference.

    Encephalitis

    Variable paralysis develops in the late stages of encephalitis. Earlier signs and symptoms include a rapidly decreasing LOC (possibly coma), a fever, a headache, photophobia, vomiting, signs of meningeal irritation (nuchal rigidity, positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs), aphasia, ataxia, nystagmus, ocular palsies, myoclonus, and seizures.

    Guillain-Barré syndrome

    Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by a rapidly developing, but reversible, ascending paralysis. It commonly begins as leg muscle weakness and progresses symmetrically, sometimes affecting even the cranial nerves, producing dysphagia, nasal speech, and dysarthria. Respiratory muscle paralysis may be life-threatening. Other effects include transient paresthesia, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and bowel and bladder incontinence.

    Head trauma

    Cerebral injury can cause paralysis due to cerebral edema and increased ICP. The onset is usually sudden. The location and extent vary, depending on the injury. Associated findings also vary, but include a decreased LOC; sensory disturbances, such as paresthesia and loss of sensation; a headache; blurred or double vision; nausea and vomiting; and focal neurologic disturbances.

    Multiple sclerosis (MS)

    With MS, paralysis commonly waxes and wanes until the later stages, when it may become permanent. Its extent can range from monoplegia to quadriplegia. In most patients, vision and sensory disturbances (paresthesia) are the earliest symptoms. Later findings are widely variable and may include muscle weakness and spasticity, nystagmus, hyperreflexia, an intention tremor, gait ataxia, dysphagia, dysarthria, impotence, and constipation. Urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence may also occur.

    Myasthenia gravis

    With myasthenia gravis, profound muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability may produce paralysis of certain muscle groups. Paralysis is usually transient in early stages, but becomes more persistent as the disease progresses. Associated findings depend on the areas of neuromuscular involvement; they include weak eye closure, ptosis, diplopia, lack of facial mobility, dysphagia, nasal speech, and frequent nasal regurgitation of fluids. Neck muscle weakness may cause the patient’s jaw to drop and his head to bob. Respiratory muscle involvement can lead to respiratory distress — dyspnea, shallow respirations, and cyanosis.

    Parkinson’s disease

    Tremors, bradykinesia, and lead-pipe or cogwheel rigidity are the classic signs of Parkinson’s disease. Extreme rigidity can progress to paralysis, particularly in the extremities. In most cases, paralysis resolves with prompt treatment of the disease.

    Peripheral neuropathy

    Typically, peripheral neuropathy produces muscle weakness that may lead to flaccid paralysis and atrophy. Related effects include paresthesia, a loss of vibration sensation, hypoactive or absent DTRs, neuralgia, and skin changes such as anhidrosis.

    Rabies

    Rabies is an acute disorder that produces progressive flaccid paralysis, vascular collapse, coma, and death within 2 weeks of contact with an infected animal. Prodromal signs and symptoms — a fever; a headache; hyperesthesia; paresthesia, coldness, and itching at the bite site; photophobia; tachycardia; shallow respirations; and excessive salivation, lacrimation, and perspiration — develop almost immediately. Within 2 to 10 days, a phase of excitement begins, marked by agitation, cranial nerve dysfunction (pupil changes, hoarseness, facial weakness, ocular palsies), tachycardia or bradycardia, cyclic respirations, a high fever, urine retention, drooling, and hydrophobia.

    Seizure Disorders

    Seizures, particularly focal seizures, can cause transient local paralysis (Todd’s paralysis). Any part of the body may be affected, although paralysis tends to occur contralateral to the side of the irritable focus.

    Spinal cord injury

    Complete spinal cord transection results in permanent spastic paralysis below the level of injury. Reflexes may return after spinal shock resolves. Partial transection causes variable paralysis and paresthesia, depending on the location and extent of injury. (See Understanding spinal cord syndromes.)

    Spinal cord tumors

    Paresis, pain, paresthesia, and variable sensory loss may occur along the nerve distribution pathway served by the affected cord segment. Eventually, these symptoms may progress to spastic paralysis with hyperactive DTRs (unless the tumor is in the cauda equina, which produces hyporeflexia) and, perhaps, bladder and bowel incontinence. Paralysis is permanent without treatment.

    Stroke

    A stroke involving the motor cortex can produce contralateral paresis or paralysis. The onset may be sudden or gradual, and paralysis may be transient or permanent. Associated signs and symptoms vary widely and may include a headache, vomiting, seizures, a decreased LOC and mental acuity, dysarthria, dysphagia, ataxia, contralateral paresthesia or sensory loss, apraxia, agnosia, aphasia, vision disturbances, emotional lability, and bowel and bladder dysfunction.

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening disorder that can produce sudden paralysis. The condition may be temporary, resolving with decreasing edema, or permanent, if tissue destruction has occurred. Other acute effects are a severe headache, mydriasis, photophobia, aphasia, a sharply decreased LOC, nuchal rigidity, vomiting, and seizures.

    Syringomyelia

    Syringomyelia is a degenerative spinal cord disease that produces segmental paresis, leading to flaccid paralysis of the hands and arms. Reflexes are absent, and loss of pain and temperature sensation is distributed over the neck, shoulders, and arms in a capelike pattern.

    Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

    Episodic TIAs may cause transient unilateral paresis or paralysis accompanied by paresthesia, blurred or double vision, dizziness, aphasia, dysarthria, a decreased LOC, and other site-dependent effects.

    West Nile encephalitis

    West Nile encephalitis is a brain infection that’s caused by West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne flavivirus endemic to Africa, the Middle East, western Asia, and the United States. Mild infections are common and include a fever, a headache, and body aches, which are sometimes accompanied by a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe infections are marked by a headache, a high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional seizures, paralysis and, rarely, death.

    Other causes

    Drugs

    The therapeutic use of neuromuscular blockers, such as pancuronium or curare, produces paralysis.

    Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

    ECT can produce acute, but transient, paralysis.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Handbook of Signs & Symptoms (Third Edition), 2006

    Vocal cord paralysis: Causes
    (Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition))

    Vocal cord paralysis commonly results from the accidental severing of the recurrent laryngeal nerve, or of one of its extralaryngeal branches, during thyroidectomy. Other causes include pressure from a thoracic aortic aneurysm or from an enlarged atrium (in patients with mitral stenosis), bronchial or esophageal carcinoma, hypertrophy of the thyroid gland, trauma (such as neck injuries) and intubation, and neuritis due to infections or metallic poisoning. Vocal cord paralysis can also result from hysteria and, rarely, lesions of the central nervous system.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Professional Guide to Diseases (Eighth Edition), 2005

    Analgesia: Medical causes
    (Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))

    Anterior cord syndrome

    In anterior cord syndrome, analgesia and thermoanesthesia occur bilaterally below the level of the lesion along with flaccid paralysis and hypoactive DTRs.

    Central cord syndrome

    In central cord syndrome, analgesia and thermoanesthesia typically occur bilaterally in several dermatomes and may extend in a capelike fashion over the arms, back, and shoulders. Early weakness in the hands progresses to weakness and muscle spasms in the arms and shoulder girdle. Hyperactive DTRs and spastic weakness of the legs may develop. However, if the lesion affects the lumbar spine, hypoactive DTRs and flaccid weakness may persist in the legs.

    With brain stem involvement, additional findings include facial analgesia and thermoanesthesia, vertigo, nystagmus, atrophy of the tongue, and dysarthria. The patient may also have anhidrosis, dysphagia, urine retention, decreased intestinal motility, and hyperkeratosis.

    Spinal cord hemisection

    Contralateral analgesia and thermoanesthesia occur below the level of the lesion. In addition, loss of proprioception, spastic paralysis, and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes develop ipsilaterally. The patient may also experience urine retention with overflow incontinence.

    Other causes

    Drugs

    Analgesia may occur with use of a topical or local anesthetic, although numbness and tingling are more common.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006

    Paralysis: Medical causes
    (Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition))

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

    This invariably fatal disorder produces spastic or flaccid paralysis in the body’s major muscle groups, eventually progressing to total paralysis. Earlier findings include progressive muscle weakness, fasciculations, and muscle atrophy, usually beginning in the arms and hands. Cramping and hyperreflexia are also common. Involvement of respiratory muscles and the brain stem produces dyspnea and possibly respiratory distress. Progressive cranial nerve paralysis causes dysarthria, dysphagia, drooling, choking, and difficulty chewing.

    Bell’s palsy

    Bell’s palsy, a disease of cranial nerve VII, causes transient, unilateral facial muscle paralysis. The affected muscles sag and eyelid closure is impossible. Other signs include increased tearing, drooling, and a diminished or absent corneal reflex.

    Botulism

    This bacterial toxin infection can cause rapidly descending muscle weakness that progresses to paralysis within 2 to 4 days after the ingestion of contaminated food. Respiratory muscle paralysis leads to dyspnea and respiratory arrest. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred or double vision, bilateral mydriasis, dysarthria, and dysphagia are some early findings.

    Brain abscess

    Advanced abscessin the frontal or temporal lobe can cause hemiplegia accompanied by other late findings, such as ocular disturbances, unequal pupils, decreased LOC, ataxia, tremors, and signs of infection.

    Brain tumor

    A tumor affecting the motor cortex of the frontal lobe may cause contralateral hemiparesis that progresses to hemiplegia. Onset is gradual, but paralysis is permanent without treatment. In early stages, frontal headache and behavioral changes may be the only indicators. Eventually, seizures, aphasia, and signs of increased ICP (decreased LOC and vomiting) develop.

    Conversion disorder

    Hysterical paralysis, a classic symptom of conversion disorder, is characterized by the loss of voluntary movement with no obvious physical cause. It can affect any muscle group, appears and disappears unpredictably, and may occur with histrionic behavior (manipulative, dramatic, vain, irrational) or a strange indifference.

    Encephalitis

    Variable paralysis develops in the late stages of this disorder. Earlier signs and symptoms include rapidly decreasing LOC (possibly coma), fever, headache, photophobia, vomiting, signs of meningeal irritation (nuchal rigidity, positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs), aphasia, ataxia, nystagmus, ocular palsies, myoclonus, and seizures.

    Guillain-Barré syndrome

    This syndrome is characterized by a rapidly developing, but reversible, ascending paralysis. It commonly begins as leg muscle weakness and progresses symmetrically, sometimes affecting even the cranial nerves, producing dysphagia, nasal speech, and dysarthria. Respiratory muscle paralysis may be life-threatening. Other effects include transient paresthesia, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and bowel and bladder incontinence.

    Head trauma

    Cerebral injury can cause paralysis due to cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure. Onset is usually sudden. Location and extent vary, depending on the injury. Associated findings also vary but include decreased LOC; sensory disturbances, such as paresthesia and loss of sensation; headache; blurred or double vision; nausea and vomiting; and focal neurologic disturbances.

    Migraine headache

    Hemiparesis, scotomas, paresthesia, confusion, dizziness, photophobia, or other transient symptoms may precede the onset of a throbbing unilateral headache and may persist after it subsides.

    Multiple sclerosis

    With this disorder, paralysis commonly waxes and wanes until the later stages, when it may become permanent. Its extent can range from monoplegia to quadriplegia. In most patients, vision and sensory disturbances (paresthesia) are the earliest symptoms. Later findings are widely variable and may include muscle weakness and spasticity, nystagmus, hyperreflexia, intention tremor, gait ataxia, dysphagia, dysarthria, impotence, and constipation. Urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence may also occur.

    Myasthenia gravis

    With this neuromuscular disease, profound muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability may produce paralysis of certain muscle groups. Paralysis is usually transient in early stages but becomes more persistent as the disease progresses. Associated findings depend on the areas of neuromuscular involvement; they include weak eye closure, ptosis, diplopia, lack of facial mobility, dysphagia, nasal speech, and frequent nasal regurgitation of fluids. Neck muscle weakness may cause the patient’s jaw to drop and his head to bob. Respiratory muscle involvement can lead to respiratory distress—dyspnea, shallow respirations, and cyanosis.

    Neurosyphilis

    Irreversible hemiplegia may occur in the late stages of neurosyphilis. Dementia, cranial nerve palsies, tremors, and abnormal reflexes are other late findings.

    Parkinson’s disease

    Tremors, bradykinesia, and lead-pipe or cogwheel rigidity are the classic signs of Parkinson’s disease. Extreme rigidity can progress to paralysis, particularly in the extremities. In most cases, paralysis resolves with prompt treatment of the disease.

    Peripheral nerve trauma

    Severe injury to a peripheral nerve or group of nerves results in the loss of motor and sensory function in the innervated area. Muscles become flaccid and atrophied, and reflexes are lost. If transection isn’t complete, paralysis may be temporary.

    Peripheral neuropathy

    Typically, this syndrome produces muscle weakness that may lead to flaccid paralysis and atrophy. Related effects include paresthesia, loss of vibration sensation, hypoactive or absent deep tendon reflexes, neuralgia, and skin changes such as anhidrosis.

    Poliomyelitis

    This disorder can produce insidious, permanent flaccid paralysis and hyporeflexia. Sensory function remains intact, but the patient loses voluntary muscle control.

    Rabies

    This acute disorder produces progressive flaccid paralysis, vascular collapse, coma, and death within 2 weeks of contact with an infected animal. Prodromal signs and symptoms—fever; headache; hyperesthesia; paresthesia, coldness, and itching at the bite site; photophobia; tachycardia; shallow respirations; and excessive salivation, lacrimation, and perspiration—develop almost immediately. Within 2 to 10 days, a phase of excitement begins, marked by agitation, cranial nerve dysfunction (pupil changes, hoarseness, facial weakness, ocular palsies), tachycardia or bradycardia, cyclic respirations, high fever, urine retention, drooling, and hydrophobia.

    Seizure disorders

    Seizures, particularly focal seizures, can cause transient local paralysis (Todd’s paralysis). Any part of the body may be affected, although paralysis tends to occur contralateral to the side of the irritable focus.

    Spinal cord injury

    Complete spinal cord transection results in permanent spastic paralysis below the level of injury. Reflexes may return after spinal shock resolves. Partial transection causes variable paralysis and paresthesia, depending on the location and extent of injury. (See Understanding spinal cord syndromes.)

    Spinal cord tumors

    Paresis, pain, paresthesia, and variable sensory loss may occur along the nerve distribution pathway served by the affected cord segment. Eventually, these symptoms may progress to spastic paralysis with hyperactive deep tendon reflexes (unless the tumor is in the cauda equina, which produces hyporeflexia) and, perhaps, bladder and bowel incontinence. Paralysis is permanent without treatment.

    Stroke

    A stroke involving the motor cortex can produce contralateral paresis or paralysis. Onset may be sudden or gradual, and paralysis may be transient or permanent. Associated signs and symptoms vary widely and may include headache, vomiting, seizures, decreased LOC and mental acuity, dysarthria, dysphagia, ataxia, contralateral paresthesia or sensory loss, apraxia, agnosia, aphasia, vision disturbances, emotional lability, and bowel and bladder dysfunction.

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage

    This potentially life-threatening disorder can produce sudden paralysis. The condition may be temporary, resolving with decreasing edema, or permanent, if tissue destruction has occurred. Other acute effects are severe headache, mydriasis, photophobia, aphasia, sharply decreased LOC, nuchal rigidity, vomiting, and seizures.

    Syringomyelia

    This degenerative spinal cord disease produces segmental paresis, leading to flaccid paralysis of the hands and arms. Reflexes are absent, and loss of pain and temperature sensation is distributed over the neck, shoulders, and arms in a capelike pattern.

    Thoracic aortic aneurysm

    Occlusion of spinal arteries by a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm may cause sudden onset of transient bilateral paralysis. Severe chest pain radiating to the neck, shoulders, back, and abdomen and a sensation of tearing in the thorax are prominent symptoms. Related findings include syncope, pallor, diaphoresis, dyspnea, tachycardia, cyanosis, diastolic heart murmur, and abrupt loss of radial and femoral pulses or wide variations in pulses and blood pressure between arms and legs. Ironically, the patient appears to be in shock, and his systolic blood pressure is either normal or elevated.

    Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

    Episodic TIAs may cause transient unilateral paresis or paralysis accompanied by paresthesia, blurred or double vision, dizziness, aphasia, dysarthria, decreased LOC, and other site-dependent effects.

    West Nile encephalitis

    This brain infection is caused by West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne flavivirus endemic to Africa, the Middle East, western Asia, and the United States. Mild infections are common and include fever, headache, and body aches, which are sometimes accompanied by skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe infections are marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional convulsions, paralysis and, rarely, death.

    Other causes

    Drugs

    Therapeutic use of neuromuscular blockers, such as pancuronium, produces paralysis.

    Electroconvulsive therapy

    This therapy can produce acute, but transient, paralysis.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Professional Guide to Signs & Symptoms (Fifth Edition), 2006

    Vocal cord paralysis: Causes
    (Handbook of Diseases)

    Vocal cord paralysis commonly results from the accidental severing of the recurrent laryngeal nerve or of one of its extralaryngeal branches during thyroidectomy.

    Other causes include pressure from an aortic aneurysm or from an enlarged atrium (in patients with mitral stenosis), bronchial or esophageal carcinoma, hypertrophy of the thyroid gland, trauma (such as neck injuries) and intubation, and neuritis due to infections or metallic poisoning. Vocal cord paralysis can also result from hysteria and, rarely, lesions of the central nervous system.

    CLINICAL TIP:  In some cases, cause isn’t identified and spontaneous recovery can occur within a year.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Handbook of Diseases, 2003

    Analgesia: Medical causes
    (Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)

    Anterior cord syndrome

    Analgesia and thermanesthesia occur bilaterally below the level of the lesion, along with flaccid paralysis and hypoactive DTRs.

    Central cord syndrome

    Analgesia and thermanesthesia occur bilaterally in several dermatomes, in many cases extending in a capelike fashion over the arms, back, and shoulders. Early weakness in the hands is evident and progresses to weakness and muscle spasms in the arms and shoulder girdle. Hyperactive DTRs and spastic weakness of the legs may develop. (If hypoactive, DTRs and flaccid weakness persist in the legs, a lesion in the lumbar spine may be suspected.)

    With brain stem involvement, additional findings include facial analgesia and thermanesthesia, vertigo, nystagmus, atrophy of the tongue, dysarthria, dysphagia, urine retention, anhidrosis, decreased intestinal motility, and hyperkeratosis.

    Spinal cord hemisection

    Contralateral analgesia and thermanesthesia occur below the level of the lesion. In addition, loss of proprioception, spastic paralysis, and hyperactive DTRs develop ipsilaterally. Urine retention with overflow incontinence may be present.

    Other causes

    Drugs

    Analgesia may occur with the use of a topical or local anesthetic, although numbness and tingling are more common.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007

    Paralysis: Medical causes
    (Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series)

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

    ALS, an invariably fatal disorder, produces spastic or flaccid paralysis in the body’s major muscle groups, eventually progressing to total paralysis. Earlier findings include progressive muscle weakness, fasciculations, and muscle atrophy, usually beginning in the arms and hands. Cramping and hyperreflexia are also common. Involvement of respiratory muscles and the brain stem produces dyspnea and respiratory distress. Progressive cranial nerve paralysis causes dysarthria, dysphagia, drooling, choking, and difficulty chewing.

    Bell’s palsy

    Transient, unilateral facial muscle paralysis occurs in Bell’s palsy, a disease of cranial nerve VII. (See Recognizing unilateral Bell’s palsy.) The affected muscles sag, and eyelid closure may be impossible. Other signs include increased tearing, drooling, diminished or absent corneal reflex, and possible difficulty with hearing or pain in the ear.

    Botulism

    Botulism, a bacterial toxin infection, can cause rapidly descending muscle weakness that progresses to paralysis within 2 to 4 days after eating contaminated food. Respiratory muscle paralysis leads to dyspnea and respiratory arrest. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred or double vision, bilateral mydriasis, dysarthria, and dysphagia are some early findings.

    Brain abscess

    Advanced abscessin the frontal or temporal lobe can cause hemiplegia accompanied by other late findings, such as ocular disturbances, unequal pupils, a decreased LOC, ataxia, tremors, and signs of infection.

    Brain tumor

    A tumor affecting the motor cortex of the frontal lobe may cause contralateral hemiparesis that progresses to hemiplegia. The onset is gradual, but paralysis is permanent without treatment. In early stages, frontal headache and behavioral changes may be the only indicators. Eventually, seizures, aphasia, and signs of increased ICP (decreased LOC and vomiting) develop.

    Conversion disorder

    Hysterical paralysis, a classic symptom of conversion disorder, is characterized by the loss of voluntary movement with no obvious physical cause. It can affect any muscle group, appears and disappears unpredictably, and may occur with histrionic behavior (manipulative, dramatic, vain, irrational) or a strange indifference.

    Encephalitis

    Variable paralysis develops in the late stages of encephalitis. Earlier signs and symptoms include rapidly decreasing LOC (possibly coma), fever, headache, photophobia, vomiting, signs of meningeal irritation (nuchal rigidity, positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs), aphasia, ataxia, nystagmus, ocular palsies, myoclonus, and seizures.

    Guillain-Barré syndrome

    Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by a rapidly developing, but reversible, ascending paralysis. It commonly begins as leg muscle weakness and progresses symmetrically, sometimes affecting even the cranial nerves, producing dysphagia, nasal speech, and dysarthria. Other effects include transient paresthesia, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and bowel and bladder incontinence.

    ALERT: Respiratory muscle paralysis may be life-threatening.

    Head trauma

    Cerebral injury can cause paralysis due to cerebral edema and increased ICP. The onset is usually sudden. Location and extent vary, depending on the injury. Associated findings also vary, but include a decreased LOC, headache, blurred or double vision, nausea and vomiting, and focal neurologic disturbances. Sensory disturbances, such as paresthesia and loss of sensation, may also occur.

    Migraine headache

    Hemiparesis, scotomas, paresthesia, confusion, dizziness, photophobia, nausea and vomiting, or other transient symptoms may precede the onset of a throbbing unilateral headache and may persist after it subsides.

    Multiple sclerosis (MS)

    With MS, paralysis commonly waxes and wanes until the later stages, when it may become permanent. Its extent can range from monoplegia to quadriplegia. In most patients, vision and sensory disturbances (paresthesia) are the earliest symptoms. Later findings are widely variable and may include muscle weakness and spasticity, nystagmus, hyperreflexia, intention tremor, gait ataxia, dysphagia, dysarthria, impotence, and constipation. Urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence may also occur.

    Myasthenia gravis

    With myasthenia gravis, a neuromuscular disease, profound muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability may produce paralysis of certain muscle groups. Paralysis is usually transient in early stages, but becomes more persistent as the disease progresses. Associated findings depend on the areas of neuromuscular involvement; they include weak eye closure, ptosis, diplopia, lack of facial mobility, dysphagia, nasal speech, and frequent nasal regurgitation of fluids. Neck muscle weakness may cause the patient’s jaw to drop and his head to bob. Respiratory muscle involvement can lead to respiratory distress — dyspnea, shallow respirations, and cyanosis.

    Neurosyphilis

    Irreversible hemiplegia may occur in the late stages of neurosyphilis. Dementia, cranial nerve palsies, tremors, and abnormal reflexes are other late findings.

    Parkinson’s disease

    Tremors, bradykinesia, and lead-pipe or cogwheel rigidity are the classic signs of Parkinson’s disease. Extreme rigidity can progress to paralysis, particularly in the extremities. In most cases, paralysis resolves with prompt treatment of the disease.

    Peripheral nerve trauma

    Severe injury to a peripheral nerve or group of nerves results in the loss of motor and sensory function in the innervated area. Muscles become flaccid and atrophied, and reflexes are lost. If transection isn’t complete, paralysis may be temporary.

    Peripheral neuropathy

    Typically, peripheral neuropathy produces muscle weakness and sensory disturbances in the extremities that may lead to flaccid paralysis and atrophy. Related effects include paresthesia, loss of vibration sensation, hypoactive or absent DTRs, neuralgia, and skin changes such as anhidrosis.

    Poliomyelitis

    Poliomyelitis can produce insidious, permanent flaccid paralysis, muscle wasting, and hyporeflexia. Sensory function remains intact, but the patient loses voluntary muscle control. Signs and symptoms before paralysis also include muscle weakness, headache, fever, nuchal rigidity, and nausea and vomiting.

    Rabies

    Rabies, an acute disorder, produces progressive flaccid paralysis, vascular collapse, coma, and death within 2 weeks of contact with an infected animal. Prodromal signs and symptoms — paresthesia and itching at the bite site accompanied by fever, headache, hyperesthesia, photophobia, tachycardia, malaise, alternating rage and calm, hydrophobia, shallow respirations, and excessive salivation, lacrimation, and perspiration — develop almost immediately. Within 2 to 10 days, a phase of excitement begins, marked by agitation, cranial nerve dysfunction (pupillary changes, hoarseness, facial weakness, ocular palsies), tachycardia or bradycardia, cyclic respirations, high fever, urine retention, and drooling.

    Seizure disorders

    Seizures, particularly focal seizures, can cause transient local paralysis (Todd’s paralysis). Any part of the body may be affected, although paralysis tends to occur contralateral to the side of the irritable focus.

    Spinal cord injury

    Complete spinal cord transection results in permanent spastic paralysis below the level of injury. Reflexes may return after spinal shock resolves. Partial transection causes variable paralysis and paresthesia, depending on the location and extent of injury.

    Spinal cord tumors

    Paresis, pain, paresthesia, and variable sensory loss may occur along the nerve distribution pathway served by the affected cord segment. Eventually, these symptoms may progress to spastic paralysis with hyperactive DTRs (unless the tumor is in the cauda equina, which produces hyporeflexia) and, perhaps, bladder and bowel incontinence. Paralysis is permanent without treatment.

    Stroke

    A stroke involving the motor cortex can produce contralateral paresis or paralysis. The onset may be sudden or gradual, and paralysis may be transient or permanent. Associated signs and symptoms vary widely and may include headache, vomiting, seizures, decreased LOC and mental acuity, dysarthria, dysphagia, ataxia, contralateral paresthesia or sensory loss, apraxia, agnosia, aphasia, vision disturbances, emotional lability, and bowel and bladder dysfunction.

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage

    A potentially life-threatening disorder, subarachnoid hemorrhage can produce sudden paralysis. The condition may be temporary, resolving with decreasing edema, or permanent, if tissue destruction has occurred. Other acute effects are severe headache, mydriasis, photophobia, aphasia, a sharply decreased LOC, nuchal rigidity, vomiting, and seizures.

    Syringomyelia

    Syringomyelia, a degenerative spinal cord disease, produces segmental paresis, leading to flaccid paralysis of the hands and arms. Reflexes are absent, and loss of pain and temperature sensation is distributed over the neck, shoulders, and arms in a capelike pattern.

    Thoracic aortic aneurysm

    Occlusion of spinal arteries by a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm may cause the sudden onset of transient bilateral paralysis. Severe chest pain radiating to the neck, shoulders, back, and abdomen and a sensation of tearing in the thorax are prominent symptoms. Related findings include syncope, pallor, diaphoresis, dyspnea, tachycardia, cyanosis, diastolic heart murmur, and abrupt loss of radial and femoral pulses or wide variations in pulses and blood pressure between the arms and legs. Paradoxically, however, the patient appears to be in shock, and his systolic blood pressure is either normal or elevated.

    Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

    Episodic TIAs may cause transient unilateral paresis or paralysis accompanied by paresthesia, blurred or double vision, dizziness, aphasia, dysarthria, a decreased LOC, and other site-dependent effects.

    West Nile encephalitis

    A brain infection, West Nile encephalitis is caused by West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne flavivirus endemic to Africa, the Middle East, western Asia, and the United States. Mild infections are common and include fever, headache, and body aches, which are sometimes accompanied by a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe infections are marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional convulsions, paralysis and, rarely, death.

    Other causes

    Drugs

    Therapeutic use of neuromuscular blockers, such as pancuronium or curare, produces paralysis.

    Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

    ECT can produce acute, but transient, paralysis.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Alarming Signs and Symptoms: Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice Series, 2007

    Paralysis: Medical causes
    (Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses)

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an invariably fatal disorder that produces spastic or flaccid paralysis in the body’s major muscle groups, eventually progressing to total paralysis. Earlier findings include progressive muscle weakness, fasciculations, and muscle atrophy, usually beginning in the arms and hands. Cramping and hyperreflexia are also common. Involvement of respiratory muscles and the brain stem produces dyspnea and, possibly, respiratory distress. Progressive cranial nerve paralysis causes dysarthria, dysphagial drooling, choking, and difficulty chewing.

    Bell’s palsy

    Bell’s palsy, a disease of cranial nerve VII, causes transient, unilateral facial muscle paralysis. The affected muscles sag, and eyelid closure is impossible. Other signs include increased tearing, drooling, and a diminished or absent corneal reflex.

    Brain tumor

    A tumor affecting the motor cortex of the frontal lobe may cause contralateral hemiparesis that progresses to hemiplegia. Onset is gradual, but paralysis is permanent without treatment. In early stages, frontal headache and behavioral changes may be the only indicators. Eventually, seizures, aphasia, and signs of increased ICP (decreased LOC and vomiting) develop.

    Conversion disorder

    Hysterical paralysis, a classic symptom of conversion disorder, is characterized by the loss of voluntary movement with no obvious physical cause. It can affect any muscle group, appears and disappears unpredictably, and may occur with histrionic behavior (manipulative, dramatic, vain, or irrational) or a strange indifference.

    Encephalitis

    Variable paralysis develops in the late stages of encephalitis. Earlier signs and symptoms include rapidly decreasing LOC (possibly coma), fever, headache, photophobia, vomiting, signs of meningeal irritation (nuchal rigidity, positive Kernig’s and Brudzinski’s signs), aphasia, ataxia, nystagmus, ocular palsies, myoclonus, and seizures.

    Guillain-Barré syndrome

    Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by a rapidly developing, but reversible, ascending paralysis. It commonly begins as leg muscle weakness and progresses symmetrically, sometimes affecting even the cranial nerves, producing dysphagia, nasal speech, and dysarthria. Respiratory muscle paralysis may be life-threatening. Other effects include transient paresthesia, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and bowel and bladder incontinence.

    Head trauma

    Cerebral injury can cause paralysis due to cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure. Onset is usually sudden. Location and extent vary, depending on the injury. Associated findings also vary but include decreased LOC; sensory disturbances, such as paresthesia and loss of sensation; headache; blurred or double vision; nausea and vomiting; and focal neurologic disturbances.

    Migraine headache

    Hemiparesis, scotomas, paresthesia, confusion, dizziness, photophobia, or other transient symptoms may precede the onset of a throbbing unilateral headache and may persist after it subsides. The patient may also experience nausea and vomiting.

    Multiple sclerosis

    With multiple sclerosis, paralysis commonly waxes and wanes until the later stages, when it may become permanent. Its extent can range from monoplegia to quadriplegia. In most patients, vision and sensory disturbances (paresthesia) are the earliest symptoms. Later findings are widely variable and may include muscle weakness and spasticity, nystagmus, hyperreflexia, intention tremor, gait ataxia, dysphagia, dysarthria, impotence, and constipation. Urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence may also occur.

    Myasthenia gravis

    Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disease that causes profound muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability that may produce paralysis of certain muscle groups. Paralysis is usually transient in early stages but becomes more persistent as the disease progresses. Associated findings in myasthenia gravis depend on the areas of neuromuscular involvement; they include weak eye closure, ptosis, diplopia, lack of facial mobility, dysphagia, nasal speech, and frequent nasal regurgitation of fluids. Neck muscle weakness may cause the patient’s jaw to drop and his head to bob. Respiratory muscle involvement can lead to respiratory distress — dyspnea, shallow respirations, and cyanosis.

    Neurosyphilis

    Irreversible hemiplegia may occur in the late stages of neurosyphilis. Dementia, cranial nerve palsies, meningitis, personality changes, tremors, and abnormal reflexes are other late findings.

    Parkinson’s disease

    Tremors, bradykinesia, and lead-pipe or cogwheel rigidity are the classic signs of Parkinson’s disease. Extreme rigidity can progress to paralysis, particularly in the extremities. In most cases, paralysis resolves with prompt treatment of the disease.

    Peripheral nerve trauma

    Severe injury to a peripheral nerve or group of nerves results in the loss of motor and sensory function in the innervated area. Muscles become flaccid and atrophied, and reflexes are lost. If transection isn’t complete, paralysis may be temporary.

    Peripheral neuropathy

    Typically, peripheral neuropathy produces muscle weakness that may lead to flaccid paralysis and atrophy. Related effects include paresthesia, loss of vibration sensation, hypoactive or absent deep tendon reflexes, neuralgia, and skin changes such as anhidrosis.

    Rabies

    Rabies produces progressive flaccid paralysis, vascular collapse, coma, and death within 2 weeks of contact with an infected animal. Prodromal signs and symptoms — fever; headache; hyperesthesia; paresthesia, coldness, and itching at the bite site; photophobia; tachycardia; shallow respirations; and excessive salivation, lacrimation, and perspiration — develop almost immediately. Within 2 to 10 days, a phase of excitement begins, marked by agitation, cranial nerve dysfunction (pupil changes, hoarseness, facial weakness, ocular palsies), tachycardia or bradycardia, cyclic respirations, high fever, urine retention, drooling, and hydrophobia.

    Seizure disorders

    Seizures, particularly focal seizures, can cause transient local paralysis (Todd’s paralysis). Any part of the body may be affected, although paralysis tends to occur contralateral to ae side of the irritable focus. Seizures may be preceded by an aura.

    Spinal cord injury

    Complete spinal cord transection results in permanent spastic paralysis below the level of injury. Reflexes may return after spinal shock resolves. Partial transection causes variable paralysis and paresthesia, depending on the location and extent of injury. (see Understanding spinal cord syndromes.)

    Spinal cord tumor

    With a spinal cord tumor, paresis, pain, paresthesia, and variable sensory loss may occur along the nerve distribution pathway served by the affected cord segment. Eventually, these symptoms may progress to spastic paralysis with hyperactive deep tendon reflexes (unless the tumor is in the cauda equina, which produces hyporeflexia) and, perhaps, bladder and bowel incontinence. Paralysis is permanent without treatment.

    Stroke

    A stroke involving the motor cortex can produce contralateral paresis or paralysis. Onset may be sudden or gradual, and paralysis may be transient or permanent. Associated signs and symptoms vary widely and may include headache, vomiting, seizures, decreased LOC and mental acuity, dysarthria, dysphagia, ataxia, contralateral paresthesia or sensory loss, apraxia, agnosia, aphasia, vision disturbances, emotional lability, and bowel and bladder dysfunction.

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage

    A subarachnoid hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening disorder that can produce sudden paralysis. The condition may be temporary, resolving with decreasing edema, or permanent, if tissue destruction has occurred. Other acute effects are severe headache, mydriasis, photophobia, aphasia, sharply decreased LOC, nuchal rigidity, vomiting, and seizures.

    Syringomyelia

    Syringomyelia, a degenerative spinal cord disease, produces segmental paresis, leading to flaccid paralysis of the hands and arms. Reflexes are absent, and loss of pain and temperature sensation is distributed over the neck, shoulders, and arms in a capelike pattern.

    Thoracic aortic aneurysm

    Occlusion of spinal arteries by a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm may cause sudden onset of transient bilateral paralysis. Severe chest pain radiating to the neck, shoulders, back, and abdomen and a sensation of tearing in the thorax are prominent symptoms. Related findings include syncope, pallor, diaphoresis, dyspnea, tachycardia, cyanosis, diastolic heart murmur, and abrupt loss of radial and femoral pulses or wide variations in pulses and blood pressure between arms and legs. Paradoxically, however, the patient appears to be in shock, and his systolic blood pressure is either normal or elevated.

    Transient ischemic attack

    Episodic transient ischemic attacks (TIA) may cause transient unilateral paresis or paralysis accompanied by paresthesia, blurred or double vision, dizziness, aphasia, dysarthria, decreased LOC, and other site-dependent effects.

    West Nile encephalitis

    Mild infections of West Nile encephalitis, a mosquito-borne flavivirus, are common and include fever, headache, and body aches, which are sometimes accompanied by skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe infections are marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional convulsions, paralysis and, rarely, death.

    Other causes

    Drugs

    Therapeutic use of neuromuscular blockers, such as pancuronium or curare, produces paralysis.

    Electroconvulsive therapy

    Electroconvulsive therapy can produce acute, but transient, paralysis.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Signs & Symptoms: A 2-in-1 Reference for Nurses, 2007

    Analgesia: Medical causes
    (Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)

    Anterior cord syndrome.With anterior cord syndrome, analgesia and thermanesthesia occur bilaterally below the level of the lesion, along with flaccid paralysis and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes.

    Central cord syndrome.Typically, analgesia and thermanesthesia occur bilaterally in several dermatomes, in many cases extending in a capelike fashion over the arms, back, and shoulders. Early weakness in the hands progresses to weakness and muscle spasms in the arms and shoulder girdle. Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes and spastic weakness of the legs may develop. If the lesion affects the lumbar spine, hypoactive deep tendon reflexes and flaccid weakness may persist in the legs.

    With brain stem involvement, additional findings include facial analgesia and thermanesthesia, vertigo, nystagmus, atrophy of the tongue, and dysarthria. The patient may also have dysphagia, urine retention, anhidrosis, decreased intestinal motility, and hyperkeratosis.

    Spinal cord hemisection.Contralateral analgesia and thermanesthesia occur below the level of the lesion. In addition, loss of proprioception, spastic paralysis, and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes develop ipsilaterally. The patient may also experience urine retention with overflow incontinence.

    Other causes

    Drugs.Analgesia may occur with use of a topical or local anesthetic, although numbness and tingling are more common.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007

    Paralysis: Medical causes
    (Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms)

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).ALS produces spastic or flaccid paralysis in the body's major muscle groups, eventually progressing to total paralysis. Earlier findings include progressive muscle weakness, fasciculations, and muscle atrophy, usually beginning in the arms and hands. Cramping and hyperreflexia are also common. Involvement of respiratory muscles and the brain stem produces dyspnea and possibly respiratory distress. Progressive cranial nerve paralysis causes dysarthria, dysphagial drooling, choking, and difficulty chewing.

    Bell's palsy.Bell's palsy causes transient, unilateral facial muscle paralysis. The affected muscles sag, and eyelid closure is impossible. Other signs include increased tearing, drooling, and a diminished or absent corneal reflex.

    Botulism.Botulism can cause rapidly descending muscle weakness that progresses to paralysis within 2 to 4 days after the ingestion of contaminated food. Respiratory muscle paralysis leads to dyspnea and respiratory arrest. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred or double vision, bilateral mydriasis, dysarthria, and dysphagia are some early findings.

    Brain abscess.Advanced abscess in the frontal or temporal lobe can cause hemiplegia accompanied by other late findings, such as ocular disturbances, unequal pupils, decreased LOC, ataxia, tremors, and signs of infection.

    Brain tumor.A tumor affecting the motor cortex of the frontal lobe may cause contralateral hemiparesis that progresses to hemiplegia. The onset is gradual, but paralysis is permanent without treatment. In early stages, a frontal headache and behavioral changes may be the only indicators. Eventually, seizures, aphasia, and signs of increased ICP (decreased LOC and vomiting) develop.

    Conversion disorder.Hysterical paralysis, a classic symptom of conversion disorder, is characterized by the loss of voluntary movement with no obvious physical cause. It can affect any muscle group, appears and disappears unpredictably, and may occur with histrionic behavior (manipulative, dramatic, vain, irrational) or a strange indifference.

    Encephalitis.Variable paralysis develops in the late stages of encephalitis. Earlier signs and symptoms include rapidly decreasing LOC (possibly coma), fever, headache, photophobia, vomiting, signs of meningeal irritation (nuchal rigidity, positive Kernig's and Brudzinski's signs), aphasia, ataxia, nystagmus, ocular palsies, myoclonus, and seizures.

    Guillain-Barré syndrome.Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by a rapidly developing, but reversible, ascending paralysis. It commonly begins as leg muscle weakness and progresses symmetrically, sometimes affecting even the cranial nerves, producing dysphagia, nasal speech, and dysarthria. Respiratory muscle paralysis may be life-threatening. Other effects include transient paresthesia, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and bowel and bladder incontinence.

    Head trauma.Cerebral injury can cause paralysis due to cerebral edema and increased ICP. The onset is usually sudden. The location and extent vary, depending on the injury. Associated findings vary, but include decreased LOC; sensory disturbances, such as paresthesia and loss of sensation; headache; blurred or double vision; nausea and vomiting; and focal neurologic disturbances.

    Multiple sclerosis (MS).With MS, paralysis commonly waxes and wanes until the later stages, when it may become permanent. Its extent can range from monoplegia to quadriplegia. In most patients, vision and sensory disturbances (paresthesia) are the earliest symptoms. Later findings are widely variable and may include muscle weakness and spasticity, nystagmus, hyperreflexia, an intention tremor, gait ataxia, dysphagia, dysarthria, impotence, and constipation. Urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence may also occur.

    Myasthenia gravis.With myasthenia gravis, profound muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability may produce paralysis of certain muscle groups. Paralysis is usually transient in early stages, but becomes more persistent as the disease progresses. Associated findings depend on the areas of neuromuscular involvement; they include weak eye closure, ptosis, diplopia, lack of facial mobility, dysphagia, nasal speech, and frequent nasal regurgitation of fluids. Neck muscle weakness may cause the patient's jaw to drop and his head to bob. Respiratory muscle involvement can lead to respiratory distress—dyspnea, shallow respirations, and cyanosis.

    Parkinson's disease.Tremors, bradykinesia, and lead-pipe or cogwheel rigidity are the classic signs of Parkinson's disease. Extreme rigidity can progress to paralysis, particularly in the extremities. In most cases, paralysis resolves with prompt treatment of the disease.

    Peripheral neuropathy.Typically, peripheral neuropathy produces muscle weakness that may lead to flaccid paralysis and atrophy. Related effects include paresthesia, a loss of vibration sensation, hypoactive or absent DTRs, neuralgia, and skin changes such as anhidrosis.

    Rabies.Rabies produces progressive flaccid paralysis, vascular collapse, coma, and death within 2 weeks of contact with an infected animal. Prodromal signs and symptoms—fever; headache; hyperesthesia; paresthesia, coldness, and itching at the bite site; photophobia; tachycardia; shallow respirations; and excessive salivation, lacrimation, and perspiration—develop almost immediately. Within 2 to 10 days, a phase of excitement begins, marked by agitation, cranial nerve dysfunction (pupil changes, hoarseness, facial weakness, ocular palsies), tachycardia or bradycardia, cyclic respirations, a high fever, urine retention, drooling, and hydrophobia.

    Seizure disorders.Seizures, particularly focal seizures, can cause transient local paralysis (Todd's paralysis). Any part of the body may be affected, although paralysis tends to occur contralateral to the side of the irritable focus.

    Spinal cord injury.Complete spinal cord transection results in permanent spastic paralysis below the level of injury. Reflexes may return after spinal shock resolves. Partial transection causes variable paralysis and paresthesia, depending on the location and extent of injury. (see Understanding spinal cord syndromes.)

    Spinal cord tumors.With a spinal cord tumor, paresis, pain, paresthesia, and variable sensory loss may occur along the nerve distribution pathway served by the affected cord segment. Eventually, these symptoms may progress to spastic paralysis with hyperactive DTRs (unless the tumor is in the cauda equina, which produces hyporeflexia) and, perhaps, bladder and bowel incontinence. Paralysis is permanent without treatment.

    Stroke.A stroke involving the motor cortex can produce contralateral paresis or paralysis. The onset may be sudden or gradual, and paralysis may be transient or permanent. Associated signs and symptoms vary widely and may include headache, vomiting, seizures, decreased LOC and mental acuity, dysarthria, dysphagia, ataxia, contralateral paresthesia or sensory loss, apraxia, agnosia, aphasia, vision disturbances, emotional lability, and bowel and bladder dysfunction.

    Subarachnoid hemorrhage.Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening disorder that can produce sudden paralysis. The condition may be temporary, resolving with decreasing edema, or permanent, if tissue destruction has occurred. Other acute effects are severe headache, mydriasis, photophobia, aphasia, sharply decreased LOC, nuchal rigidity, vomiting, and seizures.

    Syringomyelia.Syringomyelia produces segmental paresis, leading to flaccid paralysis of the hands and arms. Reflexes are absent, and loss of pain and temperature sensation is distributed over the neck, shoulders, and arms in a capelike pattern.

    Transient ischemic attack (TIA).Episodic TIAs may cause transient unilateral paresis or paralysis accompanied by paresthesia, blurred or double vision, dizziness, aphasia, dysarthria, decreased LOC, and other site-dependent effects.

    West Nile encephalitis.Symptoms of West Nile encephalitis include fever, headache, and body aches, which are sometimes accompanied by a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. More severe infections are marked by headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, occasional seizures, paralysis and, rarely, death.

    Other causes

    Drugs.The therapeutic use of neuromuscular blockers, such as pancuronium or curare, produces paralysis.

    Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).ECT can produce acute, but transient, paralysis.

    » READ BOOK EXCERPT ONLINE »

    Source: Nursing: Interpreting Signs and Symptoms, 2007


     » Next page: Risk Factors for Paralysis

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