Multiple system atrophy (MSA), formerly known as Shy-Drager Syndrome, while rare, presents many different challenges, the first of which is finding a doctor who recognizes the symptoms.
This can be tricky, because the symptoms can masquerade as a number of other diseases. MSA affects three different areas of the nervous system, including the motor functions area of the brain, the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination. The third part of the brain affected is the autonomic division of the nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like heart rate and breathing.
To get a correct diagnosis, the doctor has to take a history of the patient’s health, and combine it with blood tests and MRI/PET imaging tests.
MSA is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease with a poor prognosis. Its cause is unknown, and there are no treatments that delay the progression of the disease. Symptoms, however, are treated. Blood pressure control is one avenue of treatment, but as a whole, patients require assistance walking within a few years of the onset.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the initial symptoms closely mimic Parkinson’s disease because patients have:
- Tremors or rigidity
- Bladder control issues
- Slurred speech
- Lightheadedness and fainting
If you, or a loved one is living with MSA, there is an organization dedicated to helping individuals and their families. The Multiple System Atrophy Coalition, or MSA Coalition, has a list of support groups throughout Canada and the United States that contains many helpful resources and references. If you’re struggling, please reach out to them!
