ABOUT MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY (MSA)
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare, neurodegenerative disorder in which the autonomic (involuntary) functions of the body -- including internal functions like breathing, blood pressure, muscle control, digestion and bladder function -- and the body movement are affected.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a progressive condition which leads to the atrophy (shrinkage) and deterioration of some parts of the brain, including cerebellum, brainstem, and basal ganglia. These parts are mainly responsible for regulating the internal autonomic functions of the body.
Several parts of the body are affected by Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), in which the affected people undergo a progressive loss of motor function. This condition typically develops in adulthood, generally by people aged between 50 and 60 years. Since this condition progresses gradually over time, it causes increasing difficulty for the affected people to carry out their day-to-day activities, and they are eventually confined to bed.
There is no permanent cure for Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) because this condition does not go into remission. As such, the treatment of this disorder chiefly pertains to medications and lifestyle changes which can be useful in managing its symptoms.
CAUSES OF MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY (MSA)
The exact cause of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is still not known. Most of the cases of this disorder are 'sporadic', that is, they have a random occurrence. According to some researchers, this disorder is probably caused by a genetic component or by environmental toxins; but these theories have not yet been proved.
However, one of the distinguishing features of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is the build-up of a protein called alpha-synuclein in 'glia' --- the cells which provide support to nerve cells in the brain. More specifically, the accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein occurs in 'oligodendroglia', a cell which forms a coating on nerve cells to enable them to speedily conduct electrical signals.
SYMPTOMS OF MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY (MSA)
One of the primary signs of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is 'postural (orthostatic) hypotension', a kind of low blood condition in which a person feels dizzy or lightheaded -- or may even faint -- while standing up from a sitting or lying down position.
In addition to orthostatic hypotension, some of the other general symptoms of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) are:
- Slowness of movement
- Lack of coordination
- Stiffness of muscles
- Tremors
- Impaired speech
- A hoarse, quivering voice
- Constipation and loss of bladder control
- Reduced production of sweat, saliva and tears
- Sexual dysfunction like loss of libido
- Irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty in controlling emotions.
Based on the symptoms of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), the condition is divided into two types:
- Parkinsonian type (MSA-P)
- Cerebellar type (MSA-C).
DIAGNOSIS OF MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY (MSA)
For the diagnosis of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), doctors first perform a brief neurological exam of the potential patient and take a clinical history; and then order several tests which include:
- Autonomic testing (such as heart rate control and blood pressure control)
- Assessment of bladder function
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET scan)
- DaTscan.
TREATMENT OF MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY (MSA)
The line of treatment for Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) patients chiefly revolves around medications and other solutions which can be beneficial for them in coping with the disorder.
For that purpose, Ayurvedic formulations prepared from pure and natural herbs can be very effective. As per Ayurveda, this condition involves an imbalance of the 'Vata' energy of the body. Due to the deranged 'Vata' energy, this condition slowly and progressively damages most parts of the sufferer's body.
Some of the most useful herbal formulations for the benefit of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) patients are:
1. Brahmi Capsules:
These capsules are prepared from the standardized extract of 'Brahmi' (Bacopa monnieri) herb. This herb has been known since ancient times for its capacity to enhance memory power and brain function. It can keep the brain healthy, boost memory, improve concentration, and manage blood pressure, stress and anxiety. It has anti-oxidant and anti-anxiety properties, and keeps the body strong and healthy.
The recommended dosage of Brahmi capsules recommended for the patients of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is: two capsules with plain water two times a day, after meals.
2. Arjuna Capsules:
For preparing these capsules, the bark extract of the 'Arjuna' herb (Terminalia arjuna) is used. This herb has proven capabilities in managing major heart problems as well as metabolic diseases which can potentially lead to heart weakness and heart failure. This powerful herb for heart care is considered a natural remedy for treating high cholesterol, blocked coronary arteries, blood pressure, high triglycerides, and congestive heart failure.
3. Gotukola Capsules:
‘Gotukola’ herbal extract (Centella asiatica) used for preparing these capsules is an excellent herb for balancing the body’s three energies --- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Moreover, it can also balance the psychic energies of the body --- Satva, Rajas and Tamas. The use of Gotukola capsules can improve brain health, promote healthy blood circulation, maintain healthy metabolism, and manage depression, anxiety, and stress.
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) patients should take 1-2 Gotukola capsules two times a day with plain water, 30 minutes after meals.
4. Ashwagandha Capsules:
These capsules are also a wonderful herbal formulation for the patients of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Prepared from the standardized extract of 'Ashwagandha' herb (Withania somnifera), these capsules can relax the muscles and enhance mental capabilities. Moreover, this herbal product is also recommended for treatment of nervous breakdown, ageing, anxiety, stress, palpitations, and debilitating disorders.
Patients of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) should take one Ashwagandha capsule with plain water two times a day.
5. Curcumin Capsules:
Curcumin capsules are prepared from pure and natural extracts of the 'Haridra' herb (Curcuma longa). This herb -- commonly known as turmeric or haldi -- contains a bioactive compound called 'Curcumin,' and is widely known for its anti-inflammatory and blood-purification properties. It can reduce inflammation and treat microbial infections.
For the patients of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), two Curcumin capsules are recommended with plain water, twice a day.
CONCLUSION
Ayurvedic formulations can be extremely beneficial for Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) patients in coping with their degenerative condition, and also in the prevention of some possible complications like breathing abnormalities while sleeping, breakdown of skin due to progressive immobility, injuries from falls resulting from poor balance, difficulty in swallowing, and vocal cord paralysis.
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