What Are the Manifestations of Hysteria in Children?
Disease description:
I recently heard that a friend’s child has been diagnosed with childhood hysteria. Could you please tell me what symptoms are associated with childhood hysteria?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Zhaohua
Childhood hysteria clinically manifests primarily as somatic and psychiatric symptoms. Typical presentations include opisthotonus (arching of the back with feet pointing upward), inability to walk, and rigid extension of the limbs. Affected children may also exhibit uncontrollable laughter, screaming, and episodes of syncope following intense laughter or crying. Sleep disturbances are frequently observed as well. Children presenting with these symptoms should be referred to the Department of Neurology for neurotransmitter testing. Treatment typically involves antipsychotic medications—such as quetiapine—and may be supplemented with acupuncture therapy as appropriate.
