Chorea

Chorea describes involuntary, non-repeating movements that are abnormal and unpredictable. Derived from the Greek word for 'dance", movements associated with chorea are quick, sudden, and spontaneous. With milder forms of chorea the movement can appear to be purposeful and as if the person is fidgety or awkward in movement. Chorea can affect speech, posture, and walking. Swallowing can be affected with the tongue involuntarily moving in and out of the mouth (called "harlequin tongue"). Another common movement is the hold and release of an object when trying to grasp it (called "milkmaid's grip"). Chorea is a symptom of Huntington's disease, brain lesions, drug side effects, thyroid problems, hypoglycemia, and pregnancy.