Symptoms. The symptoms of dystonia vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Dystonia tends to be a progressive disorder, meaning that symptoms get worse over time. However, for some people the symptoms will plateau and stabilize. Early signs of dystonia include foot cramps, uncontrollable eye blinking, sensitivity to bright light, difficulties with speech or chewing, muscle spasms and cramps, a stiff neck, and fatigue with walking or other activities. In children, dystonia is often seen first in a foot or hand, with rapid progression to other body parts. The rate of progression tends to slow down in adolescence. In adulthood, dystonia typically starts in the upper body.
