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.
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.
Treatment:
Symptomatic treatment is usually carried out because there is still no ultimate treatment for 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
Causes:
The cause of Shy-Drager syndrome is unknown; the syndrome gradually develops and is often diagnosed in males with ages over 60.
The information on this site is for research purposes only and can not substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Ailments.com is not run by doctors and does not engage in the practice of medicine. Our site is not a medical authority, it is just a research tool for you to use in preparation for consulting with a doctor. We can not guarantee our information is accurate or up to date. Even if a statement made about a medical condition is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms, so you should always consult a doctor. Nothing on our site should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion or otherwise engage in the practice of medicine.
