One of the complex and rare forms of neurodegenerative diseases, multiple system atrophy is a serious health problem that attacks the body's nervous system. A rare neurodegenerative disorder affecting the autonomic nervous system, the ailment also goes by the name of Shy-Drager syndrome as it was discovered by Shy and Drager. The duo doctors recognized that there was some link between low blood pressure and disturbances in the central autonomic system. The ailment is also referred to as Parkinson's plus syndrome. Patients afflicted with this condition may experience symptoms like those found in Parkinson's disease and a combination of symptoms affecting movement, blood pressure, and orthostatic hypotension. The disease is progressive and causes fatality in many cases.
Also Read: Blood Cancer/ Leukaemia: Learn About the Early Warning Signs And Preventive Measures
Multiple System Atrophy is a perplexing and challenging condition that encompasses a group of disorders that share similarities with Parkinson's disease, with distinct characteristics. The precise cause of MSA remains a mystery, adding to the challenge of understanding and treating the disorder. It may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors, contributing to the degeneration of nerve cells in specific regions of the brain. In MSA, abnormal accumulations of alpha-synuclein protein, known as glial cytoplasmic inclusions, form within cells. This aggregation disrupts cellular function, leading to a progressive decline in the overall health of the body.
Symptoms Of MSA/ Shy Drager Syndrome
MSA primarily impacts the autonomic nervous system or autonomic dysfunction which gives rise to symptoms such as:
- Orthostatic hypotension-when sudden blood pressure drops upon standing
- Bladder dysfunction
- Impaired regulation of bodily functions
- Digestive problems
- Tremors
- Stiffness in the joints specifically in the morning
- Impaired coordination
Also Read: Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment
Complications Of Multiple System Atrophy
The complications of multiple system atrophy begin to occur as a direct result of an impaired neurological system. Besides other symptoms, disruptions in sleep due to sleep apnea are also noticed during the onset of the disease. Cerebellar ataxia, characterized by impaired coordination and balance, is another feature of multiple system atrophy. This can lead to difficulties with walking and performing precise body movements.
To Optimise Your Overall Health, Shop From Our Wide Range of Antioxidant Supplements
Diagnosis of Shy Drager Syndrome/MSA
The prognosis for patients diagnosed with multiple system atrophy is poor, with an average life expectancy of six to twelve years after the initial diagnosis is done. Moreover, diagnosing MSA poses a significant challenge due to its varied and overlapping symptoms with other neurodegenerative disorders. No definitive tests currently exist, making the diagnosis primarily based on clinical assessments and the exclusion of other conditions. Advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as PET scans and MRI may help identify patterns associated with Shy Drager Syndrome.
