Symptom 7: Cognitive and Emotional Changes
Cognitive and emotional changes are often overlooked in the context of MSA, primarily because it’s characterized as a physical disorder. However, these symptoms are just as critical and can considerably affect a patient’s quality of life.
MSA can subtly impair cognitive functions, manifesting as difficulties with attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Patients may find themselves forgetting things more often, struggling to concentrate on tasks, or having trouble solving problems that they would have easily managed before.
These cognitive difficulties, while not as prominent as in disorders like Alzheimer’s, can still be quite disruptive. They can interfere with a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, work, or engage in their hobbies, leading to frustration and reduced self-esteem.
Emotional changes are also quite common in MSA patients. Depression, anxiety, and apathy are frequent occurrences. These aren’t merely reactions to the diagnosis; they’re often directly linked to the disorder’s impact on the brain.
Depression and anxiety in MSA are particularly concerning, as they can compound the challenges patients already face due to their physical symptoms. These conditions can sap a person’s energy, motivation, and even their will to carry on, making it even more challenging to cope with the disease. (7)
