In addition, the signs and symptoms vary frequently on repeated exams. Finally, patients may exhibit either an overly dramatic concern or indifference to the problem. Most common conversion reactions remit with nonspecific, supportive interventions incorporating a strong element of suggestion. Prompt elimination of the symptom is important in order to prevent secondary gains from reinforcing and causing it to persist or recur. If symptoms do not improve rapidly or if precipitating factors persist, more definitive treatment is indicated.
Initial management focuses in alleviating the conversion symptom.
Relaxing and reassuring the patient are crucial. In addition, identifying precipitating stressor and conflicts becomes very important. The second phase is aimed at helping the patient recognize and cope with the stressors that provoked the symptom and at preventing chronicity. When secondary gain is prominent, behavioral therapy and environmental manipulation may be used to reduce it. The families must then learn to reward the patient's autonomy, self sufficiency and independence.