Shy-Drager Syndrome
Shy-Drager Syndrome Causes
The cause of Shy-Drager syndrome is unknown; the syndrome gradually develops and is often diagnosed in males with ages over 60.
Shy-Drager Syndrome Definition
Shy-Drager syndrome is a degenerative neurological disorder affecting the brain and other parts of the nervous system specifically the autonomic nervous system. The disorder is identified and was named after Dr. Milton Shy and Dr.Glen Drager; two researchers who described the syndrome in 1960. Patients with Shy-Drager syndrome experience wide ranging damage to the autonomic nervous system, the part of the nervous system responsible for controlling involuntary functions.
Shy-Drager Syndrome Diagnosis
There are no specific tests to confirm diagnosis of Shy-Drager syndrome; some tests use in confirming diagnosis includes plasma norepinephrine levels and MRI of head to rule out other disorders.
Shy-Drager Syndrome Symptoms and Signs
Shy-Drager syndrome is characterized by the following symptoms: ? Dizziness or fainting when rising or following a period of standing still ? Impotence or inability to get or maintain erection firm enough for a man to have intercourse. ? Difficulty in swallowing ? Loss of sweating on any part of the body ? Loss of control of bowels or bladder ? Decreased or blurred vision ? Muscle stiffness, which causes difficulty in bending arms or legs ? Stooped, slump over or unstable posture ? Gait changes ? Loss of balance ? Shuffling ? Muscle aches and pains ? Loss of fine motor skills ? Sleep-related breathing difficulties in some cases
Shy-Drager Syndrome Treatment
Symptomatic treatment is usually carried out because there is still no ultimate treatment for Shy-Drager syndrome.