QUESTION: A member of our family has been diagnosed as having Shy-Drager Syndrome.
I have been unable to find this in any medical reference book.
In response to my questions, the doctors tell me that they are doing all they can and that this is a very rare disease.
Can you explain and tell me if there even is such a disease?
ANSWER: Indeed there is, and it is a rare disease.
It occurs in adults, coming on slowly and gradually.
It's major problem is that the blood pressure drops when the patient attempts to stand, but other symptoms such as visual troubles, tremor, and muscle wasting form part of the syndrome.
Although the cause is still unknown, it is a generally progressive degenerative process of the central nervous system, that eventually severely incapacitates the patient.
Cortisone derivatives and salt are used to try to correct the low blood pressure, but there are no effective treatments known that can halt the progress of the neurological changes.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
