What is Shy-Drager Syndrome?

4. Other Symptoms

Beyond the parkinsonian and cerebellar symptoms are several other possible categories of symptoms. Though there is some overlap between them, it is still helpful for physicians to be able to refer to each group individually. Almost 97% of people with Shy-Drager syndrome have autonomic dysfunction or dysautonomia, a condition where the autonomic nervous system fails to work properly. This affects the bladder, intestines, pupils, blood vessels, sweat glands, and heart. This often appears as urinary and rectal incontinence, though it can also cause organ failure.

Beyond this are the pyramidal signs of hyperreflexia and spasticity, which refer to exaggerated reflexes and increased muscle tone, respectively. These typically contribute to stiffness, slowness, and muscle spasms. There are also seemingly separate symptoms such as inappropriate laughing or crying. Almost every male with Shy-Drager syndrome experiences erectile dysfunction and impotence.