On Multiple System Atrophy
According to the Mayo Clinic, multiple system atrophy is a symptom of Parkinson’s disease, and a rare disorder. It is a progressive, adult-onset disease that affects many areas of the brain, as well as their associated systems in the body.
Patients with multiple system atrophy have a high chance of developing widespread damage to the nervous system. This is because multiple system atrophy causes autonomic dysfunction, preventing the systems of the body which are not under conscious control, such as blood pressure, heart rate, sweating, digestion and sexual function.
Symptoms of multiple system atrophy include changes in facial expression, such as a “mask” appearance to the face, inability to close the mouth and staring, difficulty chewing or swallowing, disrupted sleep patterns, dizziness, frequent falling, fainting, loss of motor skills or overall control of the body, muscle aches and pains, nausea, problems with digestion, posture difficulties, slow movements, tremors, and voice and speech changes. These symptoms may lead to others, such as confusion, dementia, depression, and sleep-related breathing difficulties.
Multiple system atrophy is most often diagnosed in men over the age of 60. Doctors will check blood pressure and run eye and nerve examinations in order to diagnose the disease. Currently there is no treatment for multiple system atrophy. However, patients are given medication to help control symptoms.
For more information on multiple system atrophy, visit the Neurosciences Department of NorthShore University HealthSystem.
