Dystonia & autoimmune?

Posted by mlledaffodil @mlledaffodil, 3 days ago

Recently diagnosed with dystonia after years of increasing neuromuscular problems in hands & feet/lower legs & on entire right side of body—twisting, stiffness, weakness , heaviness. Can no longer walk normally; can’t through a meal without muscles seizing in hands.
Late celiac diagnosis & several immune collapses left a lot of malnutrition damage— wondering if any other celiacs have experienced dystonia despite long gf diet?

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dlydailyhope | @dlydailyhope | 3 days ago

@mlledaffodil
My teen son was told by a neurologist when he was 8 that he had dystonia. Autoimmune issues run in my family (mom had lupus, RA, fibromyalgia, etc.) and I have Hashimoto’s and possibly undiagnosed hypermobility Ehrlers Danlos syndrome (in my 50s and can bend over and put palms on floors with no warm up). My son is also hypermobile in his joints.

Here is what AI summarized for dystonia, autoimmune and gluten:
“Dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, leading to twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It can be associated with various neurological conditions and sometimes has links to autoimmune disorders.
In the context of celiac disease, there are a few important points to consider:
Celiac Disease and Neurological Symptoms: Some individuals with celiac disease report neurological symptoms, including movement disorders like dystonia. This can occur even after adhering to a strict gluten-free diet, especially if there has been significant neurological damage or malnutrition due to prolonged exposure to gluten before diagnosis.
Autoimmune Connection: Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition, and individuals with one autoimmune disorder are at a higher risk of developing others. This could potentially include conditions that might contribute to or exacerbate dystonia.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Malnutrition resulting from celiac disease can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as vitamins B12, D, and E, as well as minerals like magnesium. These deficiencies can affect muscle function and may contribute to symptoms like those you are experiencing.
Individual Variability: Each person's experience with celiac disease and its complications can vary widely. Some individuals may develop neurological issues despite a strict gluten-free diet, while others may not.
Consulting Healthcare Providers: It's crucial to work closely with healthcare providers, including neurologists and dietitians, to address both the dystonia and any nutritional deficiencies. They may recommend specific tests or treatments to help manage your symptoms.
If you are looking for support or shared experiences, connecting with celiac disease and dystonia support groups may provide valuable insights from others who have faced similar challenges.”