UNDERSTANDING MSA
Understanding Multiple System Atrophy
Multiple System Atrophy, commonly known as MSA, is a rare and progressive neurological condition that can affect movement, balance and coordination, as well as automatic functions of the body.
For people living with MSA, their families and carers, understanding the condition can help make conversations with healthcare professionals and decisions about support a little easier.
National MSA Research is committed to making reliable information easier to find and supporting greater awareness of MSA across Australia.
EXPLORE THE GUIDE
Find the information you need
Choose a topic to learn more. You can return to this overview at any time.
What is Multiple System Atrophy?
Multiple System Atrophy, or MSA, is a rare and progressive neurological condition that affects the nervous system.
It can affect movement, balance and coordination, as well as automatic functions of the body that we do not consciously control. These can include blood pressure, bladder and bowel function, sweating, breathing and sleep.
Symptoms and the way MSA progresses can vary considerably from person to person.
MSA-P and MSA-C
MSA is commonly described according to the predominant movement symptoms a person experiences.
MSA-P
MSA-P refers to MSA where parkinsonian symptoms are more prominent.
These can include slowness of movement, stiffness, difficulty initiating movement and problems with posture or balance.
MSA-C
MSA-C refers to MSA where cerebellar symptoms are more prominent.
These can include problems with balance, walking, coordination and speech.
Both MSA-P and MSA-C can involve problems with the autonomic nervous system. The subtype describes the predominant movement presentation and does not mean that everyone will experience the same symptoms.
Symptoms of MSA
MSA can affect several different systems in the body. The symptoms experienced, their severity and the order in which they appear can vary from person to person.
Movement and coordination
- Slowness or stiffness of movement
- Problems with balance or walking
- Unsteadiness and falls
- Difficulty with coordination
- Changes in speech or voice
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Autonomic and other symptoms
- Dizziness, light-headedness or fainting when standing
- Bladder problems, including urgency, frequency or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation or other bowel difficulties
- Changes in sweating and temperature control
- Sleep disturbances
- Breathing problems, including noisy breathing during sleep
Every person’s experience is different
Having MSA does not mean that a person will experience every possible symptom.
Symptoms, their severity and the rate at which they change can differ from person to person. Care and support needs may also change over time.
Regular conversations with a neurologist, GP and other members of the healthcare team can help ensure symptoms and changing needs are reviewed appropriately.
Support for people living with MSA and their families
Living with MSA can bring practical, emotional and medical challenges, not only for the person diagnosed but also for family members, carers and supporters.
National MSA Research is developing practical information and resources to help people better understand MSA, prepare for healthcare appointments, organise important information and find relevant Australian support services.
Our Patient Support resources are designed to complement, not replace, advice from qualified healthcare professionals.
Important medical information
Information provided by National MSA Research is general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Always discuss symptoms, medications and health concerns with qualified healthcare professionals.
In an emergency in Australia, call 000.