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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffMultiple system atrophy is so named because its signs and symptoms affect multiple parts of your body.
Previously called Shy-Drager syndrome, people with multiple system atrophy have a dysfunction in blood pressure control mechanisms, resulting in problems such as:
- Extreme low blood pressure. The primary sign of multiple system atrophy is postural (orthostatic) hypotension, a form of low blood pressure that makes you feel dizzy or lightheaded, or even faint, when you stand up from sitting or lying down.
- Extreme high blood pressure. You can also develop dangerously high blood pressure levels while lying down.
Signs and symptoms of multiple system atrophy may include:
- Low blood pressure when standing up
- High blood pressure while lying down
- In men, impotence and loss of libido
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (incontinence)
- Rigid muscles and difficulty bending your arms and legs
- Impairment of movement and coordination (unsteady gait, loss of balance)
- A reduction in the production of perspiration, tears and saliva
- Impaired control of body temperature, often causing cold hands or feet as well as heat intolerance
- Constipation
- Slurred speech; slow or low-volume speech
- Visual disturbances (blurred vision, difficulty focusing your eyes)
- Irregular heartbeat
- Impaired ability to swallow
- Difficulty controlling emotions
- Agitated sleep due to "acting out" one's dreams
- Abnormal breathing at night
When to see a doctor
If you develop any of the signs and symptoms associated with multiple system atrophy, see your doctor for an evaluation and diagnosis. If you've already been diagnosed with the condition, contact your doctor if new symptoms occur or if existing symptoms worsen.
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- Low PA, et al. Management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: An update. The Lancet Neurology. 2008;7:451.
- NINDS multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/msa_orthostatic_hypotension/msa_orthostatic_hypotension.htm. Accessed May 14, 2009.
