Coping With Multisystem Atrophy

SYMPTOMS

First started approx 3 years ago
Progressive

Gait disorder
Changed body shape left side only
Redness around big toe joint
Stiff left shoulder restricted arm movement
Uncoordinated movement
Balance problems
Slow restricted left hand movement
Puffy swelling on back of left hand
in between knuckles
Untidy writing
Frequent and urgent urination
Constipation
Acid reflux
Swelling lower legs and ankles
Ice cold and hot sensation in feet
Apathy, no motivation

After taking modapar - Improved left arm and shoulder, slightly improved walking

Modapar and entacapone taken every 6 hrs. - feeling of sleepiness after 2hrs lasting about I hr. shakiness as medication wears off.

Symptoms progressing during last year (fast progression noticeable on daily basis)

Left arm and hand movement has become very limited
Last few weeks feelings of anxiety and panic
Very tense
Dizziness especially when moving head
Tremor more pronounced
Balance much worsened
Cannot walk in straight line
Difficulty starting urination
Incomplete bladder emptying
Dry flaky skin in ears
Very watery eyes
Lacking sence of smell
Although hot cannot sweat
Loss of appetite
Voice changes in tone
Dry mouth
Lower legs feel hot & swollen feet
Shakiness & RLS when madopar is due(ie.6 hrs )

Medication
Modapar 125mg & entacapone 200mg 4 tpd

Amantadine – started One week 1 tablet did not make any difference but made dizziness & balance worse also caused sudden sleepiness. Did not continue & stopped

I think I have become addicted to the modapar because I become agitated when meds are due ie every 6 hours and I only sleep for 6 hours.

Entacapone ceased 25th august 2007

24th aug feinted twice I think my blood pressure is low