Living Beyond the Diagnosis

The Early Warning Signs of MSA

Life has an uncanny way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. Last April, I suffered a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke. At the time, I thought it was just a strange episode – sudden dizziness, slurred speech, and loss of balance. But it turns out that TIA was an early red flag pointing to a condition I never could have expected – Multiple System Atrophy (MSA).

MSA is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, blood pressure control, and other autonomic functions like bladder control and digestive regulation. The key is that it affects multiple parts of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. I’d never even heard of MSA before, but looking back, that TIA due to extremely high blood pressure, was an early clue.

In my journey, I’ve come to realize the utmost importance of early detection, not only for myself but for countless others who might be living with this insidious disease without knowing it. In this blog post, I will attempt to shed light on the early signs of MSA, hoping to raise awareness about this often-misunderstood condition.

For me, it started with that TIA. But for others with MSA, early symptoms can include:

• Lightheadedness or dizziness upon standing.
• Urinary incontinence
• Constipation
• Erectile dysfunction
• Slowed movement.
• Stiffness in the arms and legs
• Poor balance and coordination
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty swallowing
• Changes in facial expression
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Cognitive impairment

Many of us never connected these issues to MSA, or any systemic issue, because we figured they were normal signs of aging. The problem is, MSA progresses rapidly, so missing these early red flags can delay much-needed treatment and support.

I’m sharing my story, on this Blog, because I want others to recognize these subtle early symptoms. MSA is not well known even among neurologists, but awareness and early detection can make a huge difference in managing symptoms and slowing progression. I hope my experience will help shine a light on this devastating disorder. Catching MSA early is critical, whether it’s through an unexpected mini-stroke like mine or other issues like fainting spells and bladder problems associated with the Orthostatic Hypotension that goes hand-in-hand with MSA. Don’t ignore the warning signs. Push for answers. It could lead to a diagnosis that makes all the difference. I know that the early signs of MSA can be vague and nonspecific, so it is important to be vigilant. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, please see a Neurologist immediatly. Early detection is key to managing the symptoms of MSA and living a full and active life.

I am also writing this blog to encourage people to support MSA research. There is still so much we don’t know about this disease. More research is needed to develop new treatments and ultimately a cure for MSA.

If you or someone you know has MSA, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you support your physical and emotional well-being. Reach out. I would love to help you.

NEXT UP: The Lost Souls of MSA – We gotta do something. We just have to.