MSA is a severe form of parkinsonism that involves a group of disorders where one or more body parts fail to function. The autonomic nervous system is usually affected during the early stages of the disease.
Symptoms of MSA may include bladder issues, orthostatic hypotension, impaired speech, breathing or swallowing difficulties, and an inability to sweat.
Like Parkinson's, early stages of MSA can cause rigidity and slow movement. However, like other forms of parkinsonism, symptoms of MSA do not typically respond to Parkinson's drugs or treatments.