Cerebellar Multiple System Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Cerebellar Multiple System Atrophy?
A neurologist, which is a doctor who treats brain and nerve problems, usually leads care for this condition. A gastroenterologist, who treats the stomach and intestines, may help with digestion problems. Other specialists, such as heart or bladder doctors, often join the care team as symptoms change.
What it is
Cerebellar multiple system atrophy is a rare disease in which areas of the brain slowly break down, including the cerebellum, which controls balance and smooth movement. It also affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls blood pressure, digestion, and bladder control.
Symptoms
People may walk unsteadily, and speech can become slow, slurred, or hard to understand. Because the autonomic nervous system is also affected, people can feel faint or dizzy when standing, a problem doctors call orthostatic hypotension. Constipation, bladder trouble, and sleep problems are also common.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not know what causes it. It is not passed down from parents to children in most cases, and it is not contagious. A protein called alpha-synuclein builds up inside cells in the brain and nervous system, which is thought to damage the cells over time. The disease usually starts between the ages of 50 and 60.
How doctors diagnose it
There is no single test for multiple system atrophy. Doctors look at the pattern of symptoms and the person's history, and a neurologist will do a careful exam of balance, movement, reflexes, and nerve function. Diagnosis can take time and is often confirmed as symptoms follow a clear pattern.
Treatment
No treatment stops or reverses the disease. Physical therapy can help people stay steady, and speech therapy can help with talking and swallowing. Medicines can raise blood pressure, and other treatments can help with constipation and bladder problems.
When to see a doctor
Anyone with ongoing unsteadiness, slurred speech, fainting when standing, or new bladder trouble should see a doctor. These symptoms can have many causes, and some are easy to treat. If falls or fainting become common, seek care soon.
What kind of doctor treats it
A neurologist usually manages this condition. A gastroenterologist may be involved when digestive problems need special care. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a steady home base for care, managing everyday health needs and coordinating the many specialists involved, and would refer the patient to a neurologist for disease-specific care.
Common questions
Is multiple system atrophy the same as Parkinson's disease?
No, they are different diseases. Early on, multiple system atrophy can look like Parkinson's disease because both can cause slowness and stiffness. Multiple system atrophy also damages the autonomic nervous system and the cerebellum, and it usually does not respond to Parkinson's medicines as well.
Is it inherited?
In most cases, no. Doctors do not consider it a disease that runs in families. Most people with the condition have no relatives with it.
Can it be cured?
There is no cure at this time. Treatments can ease symptoms and help people stay active and comfortable. How the disease progresses differs from person to person.
Why does standing make me feel faint with this condition?
The autonomic nervous system normally tightens blood vessels when you stand so blood does not pool in your legs. When this system is damaged, blood pressure drops on standing and the brain gets less blood for a moment. Doctors call this orthostatic hypotension, and there are treatments and habits that can help.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Multiple system atrophy
- MedlinePlus - Multiple system atrophy - cerebellar subtype
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
