Currently there is no cure for MSA nor any
treatments to delay the progression of neurodegeneration.
The rate of such progression varies from one
person to another but it is inevitable that over time increasing levels of assistance
may be needed for everyday activities.
Being prepared for what lies ahead can be useful for many people so that
the help and adjustments that might be required can be planned for.
Moreover, there are treatments to help manage some
of the more disabling symptoms and, because MSA is a complex illness, a
combination of approaches will probably be suggested:
Medication -
a specialist doctor or neurologist
will manage your medication – often including Parkinson’s medications to treat
movement symptoms, regulate blood pressure and improve bladder control for
example – and will tailor your regime to suit individual symptoms and adjust
dosage as necessary.
Specialist
equipment - depending on the country in which you live, an occupational therapist or physiotherapist will be able to advise on
specialist equipment and strategies to overcome difficulties in everyday life,
for example turning in bed, personal hygiene or eating. Your doctor will be able to refer you to the
various team members who can help with specific difficulties so it is important
to communicate with your doctor so that he can put you in touch with the most
appropriate, experienced professionals.
Complementary
therapies - so far there is no evidence to support the use of complementary therapies for MSA but some
people find them helpful, for example in relaxing and relieving stress. For more information see Complementary therapies.
