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Conversion disorder: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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Conversion disorder is characterized by symptoms or deficits in function that develop unconsciously and involuntarily and usually involve motor or sensory functions. The presentation may resemble neurological or other general medical conditions but is rarely supported by known pathophysiological mechanisms or anatomical pathways. The onset and persistence of conversion symptoms is usually related to psychiatric factors such as stress. Diagnosis is based on the history after physical illness has been ruled out. Treatment begins with establishing a stable, supportive relationship between physician and patient; psychotherapy may be helpful, as may hypnosis or interviews with medication.
Conversion disorder typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood, but can occur at any age. It is somewhat more common among women. Isolated conversion symptoms may not fully meet the criteria for conversion disorder or somatization disorder.
[ Symptoms of Conversion Disorder
Symptoms often develop suddenly, and their onset is usually related to a stressful event. Symptoms are limited to impairment of voluntary motor or sensory function, suggesting a neurological or somatic disorder (e.g., impaired coordination or balance, weakness or paralysis of an arm or leg, or loss of sensation in a body part). Such symptoms may include seizures, blindness, double vision, deafness, aphonia, difficulty swallowing, sensation of a lump in the throat, and urinary retention.
Symptoms are severe enough to cause distress or interfere with functioning in social, occupational, and other important areas of life. The patient may have a single episode or sporadically recurring episodes; symptoms may become chronic. Episodes are usually brief.
The diagnosis is established only after research and examinations that exclude a somatic disease that could fully explain the symptoms and their consequences.
Treatment for conversion disorder
A consistent, trusting, and supportive relationship between doctor and patient is essential. Once the doctor has ruled out a physical illness and reassured the patient that there is no evidence of a serious underlying disease, the patient usually begins to feel better and the symptoms subside. When the symptoms were preceded by a traumatic event, psychotherapy may be effective.
Other treatment options are not very effective. Hypnotherapy, drug-assisted interviews, and behavior modification therapy, including relaxation training, may help.