Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Have Blepharospasms, Difficulty Eating And Swallowing, Difficulty Holding Head Up. What Is Causing This?
I am 70 years old and have Blepharospasms. About three months ago, I began to have difficulty eating and swollowing. I now have to eat soft foods and even have trouble with that. I also have difficulty holding my head up. It feels like something is pushing against the back of my head and I have to force my head up. About a year ago I had surgery, four herniated disks in my neck with plates and pins put in. Can you tell me what could be causing the problems I have.
Mon, 24 Dec 2012
It appears that you are developing craniofacial dystonia, typically called as Meige's syndrome. Its an extended form of blepharospasm, involving facial and neck muscles. You will need botulinum injections (Botox, Dysport...) for the same. Consult your neurophyscian
I find this answer helpful
See difficulty in eating may be of many type like mouth is dry of saliva,difficulty in tongue movement and sensations,more difficulty with solid or liquid,sansation of something in neck,some sound heard during swallowing.Depending on this it can be myelomalasia at C2 TO C4 LEVEL,Extrution of pins or its breakage,connective tissue disorder.First of all do a x-ray cervical spine to see the plates and pins if OK then do MRI cervical spine IF THESE PLATES AND ARE OF TITANIUM ONLY.Show to a neurosurgeon.
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Craniofacial abnormalities
Loading Online Doctors....