Multiple system atrophy (MSA), one of the causes of paralysis in the elderly

Multiple system atrophy (abbreviated MSA) is a nervous system disorder characterized by the slow loss of function of the nervous system in regulating the body. The onset of MSA occurs when the brain and spinal cord cells die. This condition will get worse, depending on the number of nerve cells that die.

MSA makes it difficult for a person to move freely. Not only that, MSA is also characterized by a combination of several autonomic nervous disorders that play a role in the body's functions unconscious or that are not governed by the brain. For example the process of digestion, respiration, and regulation of blood vessels.

MSA is classified as a rare neurological disease and may occur in the elderly (elderly), especially those aged 50 years and over. Symptoms of MSA can appear and develop very quickly, which is over a period of five to ten years. MSA can cause disability due to loss of function of the autonomic nerves and nerves in the limbs so that the patient becomes paralyzed, can only lie in bed.

Multiple system atrophy characteristics and symptoms

The condition of MSA is very difficult to recognize from the onset of symptoms. MSA is also difficult to distinguish from Parkinson's disease because the symptoms are so similar. Early symptoms that can occur in people with MSA include:

• The body feels stiff and has difficulty moving.
• Coordination problems such as difficulty grasping and walking.
• Difficulty speaking.
• Experiencing hypotension (low blood pressure) so you feel dizzy.
• Blood pressure drops when changing positions from sitting to standing or from standing to sitting.
• Disorders in controlling the bladder muscles.

Apart from the above symptoms, MSA can also occur in a specific pattern which is divided into two types, namely parkinsonian MSA and cerebellar MSA. The following is the complete information.

• Parkinsonian multiple system atrophy (MSA-P) is the most common type of MSA and has symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease. MSA-P is often characterized by the following symptoms.
  • Stiff muscles.
  • Trouble folding your arms and legs.
  • Slow body movement.
  • Tremors (although somewhat rare).
  • Posture disorders, such as difficulty standing upright.
  • Balance disorders, for example, frequent falls.
• Cerebellar multiple system atrophy (MSA-C) is an MSA disorder that occurs due to the death of brain nerve cells, some of which attack autonomic nerve cells, triggering the following symptoms.
  • Balance disorders.
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Speech disorders.
  • Abnormal eye movements.

In contrast to Parkinson's disease in the elderly, MSA tends to develop more quickly. MSA sufferers will need assistive devices within a few years of MSA symptoms appearing for the first time. In the development of the disease, MSA sufferers can experience the following things.

• Muscles shorten around the joints of the hands and feet, making it difficult to move.
• Pisa syndrome, namely abnormal posture disorders so that the body tilts to one side like the tower of Pisa.
• Antecollis, that is, a disorder that causes the neck to bend forward and the head to drop
• Experiencing depression and anxiety disorders.
• Experiencing sleep disturbances.

What causes multiple system atrophy?

There is no known exact cause of MSA because it is rare and occurs randomly without a specific pattern. Damage to MSA occurs due to the buildup of alpha-synuclein protein in the glia, the cells that support the nerves of the brain. The buildup also interferes with the process of forming myelin brain nerve sheaths. As a result, the work system of the brain is disrupted.

Multiple system atrophy complications

The development of MSA in each individual is different. However, MSA's condition did not improve. As the disease progresses, the ability to carry out daily activities decreases. Some of the complications that can be caused by MSA include:

• Respiratory problems, especially while sleeping.
• Injury from a fall caused by a balance disorder or when you lose consciousness (fainting).
• Damage to the skin surface due to the body not moving.
• Difficulty swallowing food.
• Vocal cord paralysis, that is, a disorder that causes difficulty speaking and breathing.

Usually a person who has MSA can live about 10 years from the first reported symptoms of MSA. However, the chances of survival from MSA vary widely. Even in certain cases, the patient's life expectancy can reach dozens of years. The fatal effects of MSA are often caused by respiratory tract disorders.

Treatment of multiple system atrophy patients

To date, there is no treatment that can cure or inhibit the progression of nerve cell damage caused by MSA. Therefore, the treatment provided only focuses on improving the quality of life and patient comfort.

MSA patients need a variety of tools that are specific to their symptoms. Talking difficulties can be overcome by doing talk therapy. Meanwhile, eating disorders can be overcome with a special tube to drain food ingredients. Limb therapy and moving mobility aids are needed to reduce dependence on MSA sufferers in carrying out daily activities.

Furthermore, doctors and nurses will tell you what kind of care the patient needs over time. Patients may also need the help of a personal nurse to carry out their daily activities. You must be sensitive to the patient's needs.

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