Parkinson’s is a nasty neurologic condition. My father died of a similar diagnosis, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. And this article is dedicated to another difficult to name diagnosis, Shy-Drager Syndrome. Shy Drager, also known as Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the autonomic system of the body, which controls involuntary actions like blood pressure, breathing, bladder function, and muscle control. 

First identified in the 1960s by Dr. Milton Shy and Dr. Glen Drager, this condition shares symptoms with more well-known diseases like Parkinson’s disease, making it challenging to diagnose.

(The MDs are great at labels, but not good at all trying to find the CAUSE of the group of symptoms.)

What is Shy-Drager Syndrome?

Shy-Drager Syndrome is characterized by a deterioration of cells in specific areas of the brain and spinal cord, particularly those that regulate the autonomic nervous system and motor control. Mainstream believes the cause of this multisystem atrophy is unknown, though it involves the degeneration of nerve cells in certain parts of the brain, which affects the body’s involuntary functions and movement.

The cause is the same as all other health problems: violations of Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of Shy-Drager Syndrome are diverse and can vary significantly from person to person. They typically appear in adulthood, usually in the late 50s. Common symptoms include:

1. Autonomic Dysfunction: This can manifest as orthostatic hypotension (a significant drop in blood pressure when standing), leading to lightheadedness or fainting. Other symptoms might include bladder control issues, sexual dysfunction, and changes in sweating patterns.
2. Motor Impairments: Similar to Parkinson’s disease, individuals may experience tremors, slow movement (bradykinesia), muscle rigidity, and balance problems. 
3. Neurological Impairments: These can include speech and swallowing difficulties, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairments.

Risk Factors

The precise risk factors for Shy-Drager Syndrome are not well understood due to its rarity. However, it is more commonly diagnosed in men than women and typically affects individuals over 50 years of age. There are no known genetic or environmental factors conclusively linked to the development of MSA.

Again, this condition, like the others, is from violations of Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well. Specifically, EVERYONE should be checked for mold mycotoxins. 

Prognosis

The progression of Shy-Drager Syndrome varies, but it is generally considered a progressive and ultimately fatal disease. The life expectancy following diagnosis is typically 7 to 10 years. Over time, individuals may require assistance with daily activities and may become bedridden.

Mainstream Treatments

As of now, there is no cure for Shy-Drager Syndrome, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Mainstream treatments may include:

1. **Pharma**: To manage low blood pressure, medications like fludrocortisone or midodrine might be prescribed. Parkinson’s disease medications, such as levodopa, may offer temporary relief from motor symptoms but often become less effective as the disease progresses. Ivabradine may also be used. 
2. **Physical Therapy**: This can help maintain mobility and balance.
3. **Speech Therapy**: To address difficulties with speech and swallowing.
4. **Lifestyle Adjustments**: Including increased salt and fluid intake, wearing compression stockings, and sleeping with the head elevated to manage orthostatic hypotension.

The NHD Plan

1. Discuss and live our Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well
2. Test, Don’t Guess including our Comprehensive Health Assessment Test panel along with the Neural Zoomer Plus testing. Also, consider Genova GI Effects stool analysis. 
3. #8 swiffer test from our website

After a review of the above, evidence-based supplements and biohacking strategies will be recommended. Again, we try to find and REVERSE the causes of this condition. 

That is your best survival strategy. 

Schedule a Discovery Call with one of our coaches to see how we can help you.