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Most often idiopathic. Predisposition may be attributed to family history or events in childhood, for example trauma, infection, etc. Variable age of onset and a range of biopsychosocial precipitants.
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May present as potentially life threatening and socially alarming paroxysms, precipitated by environmental and emotional factors.
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Often initially diagnosed clinically, with further investigation if refractory to treatment or if complicated.
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Costly long term treatment for control of symptoms, and possibly hospital admission during exacerbations.
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Chronic course, with intermittent clustered attacks, potentially leading to avoidance behaviour and instant, brief, and unpredictable access to a sick-role.
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May remit spontaneously or progress to significant disability in spite of patients’ compliance with treatment.
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