Cotard syndrome, also known as walking corpse syndrome or nihilistic delusion, is a rare neuropsychiatric condition in which the patient feels that they, or one of their organs, are dying, dead, or don’t exist at all. It is mostly common among people with severe depression, but more recent medical research has reported that it can be associated with several other neurological and psychiatric conditions. Doctors might face some difficulties diagnosing it for its sophistication, but that does not make it completely untreatable.
The History of Cotard Syndrome
The syndrome got its name from the French physician Jules Cotard back in 1880. Cotard reported a case of a middle-aged woman who claimed that her brain, nerves, chest, and entrails entirely do not exist. He named the condition of people who experienced certain negation of oneself or the world around them “Delire des négations” which translates into “Delirium of negation.” In 1893, Emil Regis, a French psychiatrist, coined the term Cotard syndrome to refer to patients who struggle with anxiety, depressive disorder; being depressed and losing interest in every aspect of one’s life for long periods of time, delusions of the absence of organs, and hypochondriac; firm belief that one’s health is deteriorating without any medical belief.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Cotard syndrome can be hard to diagnose as it is often associated with several medical conditions, such as brain tumors, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, dementia, or stroke. This was confirmed by research in 2018, in which experts reported that people who have the syndrome often have experienced a brain alteration caused by a neurological issue before.
All in all, for an accurate diagnosis, doctors have to conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s symptoms and find the illness it is mainly associated with. The Cotard syndrome is more common among women who are older than 60 years old and a rare, but possible occurrence among adolescents.
How Is It Treated?
There is not one standard treatment for Cotard syndrome as it can be caused by multiple different medical conditions, so the best course of action a doctor could follow is to determine the cause first and then suggest the treatment accordingly. The treatments include antipsychotic or antidepressant medications to lessen the intensity of the delusions and their impact on the patient’s day-to-day life. Psychotherapy is also an option as it walks the patient through their psychological struggle and offers them healthier methods to cope with and manage it.
In addition to that, the treatment that has proven to be extremely functional for patients with Cotard syndrome is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), in which one’s brain receives electrical shocks that can alter neurotransmitters and, eventually, change the brain chemistry to improve one’s condition.
Final Thoughts
Cotard syndrome can be damaging to one’s life if it’s not met with the needed treatment. If you start experiencing odd symptoms, approach a doctor and seek medical care and guidance. This syndrome must be taken seriously because it can quickly turn into a lethal one as patients can engage in harmful behaviors such as self-harm, suicidal ideation, or self-starving.
Some people with Cotard syndrome can be detached completely from their existence and cannot see the purpose of getting help. So, if you notice anyone in your environment going through a similar experience, suggest seeking professional help while trying to be present with them every step of the way. Above all, be compassionate and sympathize as it is the healthiest way to approach the situation.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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