This page is under construction. We are in the foundational process as a charitable organisation.
If you are in Ireland, north or south and you want to help in any way, please do reach out by email info@msaireland.org or fill the form.

MSA IRELAND PARTNERSHIP

WHAT IS MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY?

MSA is a rare, rapidly progressing neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain. MSA impairs the systems that regulate blood pressure, heart rate and the bladder – many of the basic bodily functions that people take for granted every day. People with MSA suffer from dangerously low blood pressure, speech and swallowing difficulties, sleep disturbances, breathing problems, rigidity and tremors. The life expectancy for those with MSA is typically 5 to 10 years. There is no remission of the disease. Almost 80% of patients are disabled within five years of the onset of the motor symptoms, and less than 20% of the cases survive beyond 10 years. Rate of progression and the speed of decline may vary widely from case to case.

At present, there is no cure for MSA, no genetic tests to detect it, no therapy to slow it and very few treatments to manage its debilitating effects. 

OUR MISSION

MSA Ireland Partnership intends to be an inclusive based charity which aspires to support patients, educate medical professionals, raise public awareness, advocate for the community and nurture promising research.

The Partnership invites all other like-minded individuals, north and south and people around the world, to unite with us in this noble task: to speak for those who cannot, with one mind, one heart and one voice: to cure MSA forever!

MSA Ireland Partnership

GIVE BACK BY VOLUN­TEERING

MSA Ireland is calling on volunteers to help our mission. If you are interested in volunteering, please follow the link below to our online form.

MANAGING MSA

The cause of multiple system atrophy (MSA) remains unknown, and no current therapy can reverse or halt progression of the disease. The extra-pyramidal and cerebellar aspects of the disease are debilitating and difficult to treat.

NONPHARMACOLOGIC TREATMENT

  • Constipation – A high-fiber diet, bulk laxative, lactulose, and suppositories can prevent constipation
  • Stridor – Speech therapy is often useful to improve swallowing and communication
  • Deconditioning – Physical therapy and an aquatic exercise program (hypotension does not occur while patients are in water) prevent physical deconditioning of the patient unless the movement disorder aspect of the illness so impairs balance that this is not advisable
  • Urinary incontinence – Intermittent self catheterization or suprapubic or urethral catheterization can improve symptoms of urinary incontinence
  • Falls – As the disease progresses, the risk of falls increases; proper gait instruction and precautions are critical to prevent falls and resultant injury

PHARMACOLOGIC TREATMENT

Drug therapy is directed mainly toward alleviation of symptoms of the movement disorder and orthostatic hypotension. Urinary incontinence, constipation, erectile dysfunction, and supine hypertension can also be addressed through pharmacologic therapy.

SURGICAL CARE

An atrial pacemaker may be used in patients with profound bradycardia in addition to orthostatic hypotension as a means of preventing the hypotension. However, this treatment is rarely undertaken and is rarely helpful. Consider tracheostomy with the utmost care for intermittent respiratory stridor. Cricopharyngeal myotomy or gastrostomy has been used in patients with severe dysphagia, but its value is uncertain.

CONSULTATIONS

Physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, nutritionists and social workers can offer considerable practical help.

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DISCLAIMER

This page is published by MSA Ireland Partnership for informational and support purposes only. The information presented in them should not be used for suggesting any diagnosis or understood as recommending any medicines, tests or treatments. Every visitor should consult with his/her doctor or other health care provider for any medical condition.

Furthermore, the Partnership has used all reasonable care to protect your privacy, ensure confidentiality and maintain a safe and secure online presence. For questions about the website or information contained therein, contact: info@msaireland.org info@msaireland.org

MSA Ireland Partnership © 2024