What is SPS disease?
In stiff person syndrome, the immune system attacks an essential enzyme in the brain, glutamate decarboxylase. This enzyme is important for the regulation of nerve cells throughout the nervous system. If it does not function properly, the nervous system gets out of control. Under stress in particular, the muscles suddenly contract and harden. The SPS disease can not only affect the legs, but can also manifest itself in other limbs or in the back muscles through muscle hardening become noticeable. As a result, the diagnosis of SPS is often not equated. The average age at which the disease is discovered is 46.
These are the triggers of SPS disease
A genetic predisposition can increase the risk of developing SPS, although exact genetic markers have not yet been fully identified. Individuals with other autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease, have a higher risk of developing SPS disease. These concomitant diseases may play a role in the dysregulation of the immune system.
Certain infections can also affect the immune system and contribute to the development of SPS disease contribute to the development of SPS disease. The exacerbation of the symptoms of stiff person syndrome is also caused by stress is also a known trigger. Stressful situations and phases of life can exacerbate muscle cramps and joint stiffness.
Stiff person syndrome: symptoms of the disease
SPS is often diagnosed very late because the symptoms can also be attributed to other problems and illnesses. Typical characteristics of SPS disease are
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Muscle stiffness
Those affected feel a progressive stiffness of the muscles, especially in the trunk and legs. -
Painful muscle cramps
Sudden and intense muscle cramps triggered by stress, touch or loud noises are another symptom of the disease. The cramps can last from several minutes to hours. -
Balance and coordination disorders
Symptoms of the disease include difficulties walking and standing, which are caused by muscle stiffness and cramps. The restricted mobility increases the risk of falling. -
Abnormal posture
In the advanced stage, sufferers often have a bent forward posture due to the immobility of the back muscles. In some cases, this can lead to complete stiffening of the back. -
Sensitivity to external stimuli
One symptom of stiff person syndrome is an excessive reaction to sound, touch or emotional stress, which triggers muscle spasms.
The symptoms can fluctuate in intensity and worsen over time. In some cases, the stiffness and tendency to cramp may be limited to specific muscle groups.
Stiff person syndrome: course of the disease
Stiff person syndrome is progressive and insidious. The disease often begins with slight stiffening of the muscles, mainly in the trunk and legs. Patients then notice increasing difficulties with certain movements. The muscle stiffness gradually increases and spreads to other parts of the body. Painful muscle cramps become more frequent and more intense, restricting mobility and making everyday activities a challenge. The intensity of the symptoms can fluctuate from time to time. At times when those affected feel relatively well, there may suddenly be phases that are accompanied by severe symptoms.
Perspective & life expectancy: this is the prognosis for people with SPS
Anyone diagnosed with stiff person syndrome wants to be given as accurate a prognosis as possible for the rest of their life. Unfortunately, there is still no cure for stiff person syndrome. It is a chronic and progressive disease in which the symptoms worsen over time. The good news is that the earlier SPS is diagnosed, the better the stiff person syndrome treatment can improve quality of life in the long term.
According to current research, life expectancy with stiff person syndrome is only slightly reduced. Complications that can affect life expectancy are often of a secondary nature. Falls can occur due to mobility problems or breathing difficulties caused by severe muscle stiffness in the chest area.
What treatment options are available?
The treatment of the disease is based on three pillars. Those affected usually receive interdisciplinary care.
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Physiotherapy & muscle relaxation
Regular physiotherapy improves the mobility and flexibility of the affected muscle groups. Stretching exercises and heat therapy should alleviate muscle stiffness and cramps. In addition, relaxation techniques such as yoga and Tai Chi can reduce stress-related cramps and improve balance and general mobility. -
Medication for symptomatic treatment
The attending physician can prescribe medication to treat the muscle cramps. A muscle relaxant is often used for this. Medication against the anxietywhich those affected often suffer from, are also prescribed. -
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy has been developed for those affected. This involves administering medication that has an anti-inflammatory effect and suppresses the immune system. This is intended to suppress the autoimmune reaction triggered by SPS disease. The treatment consists of high-dose antibodies that are administered intravenously.
Acupressure can relieve muscle tension
A natural method to alleviate the symptoms of SPS disease is acupressure. An acupressure mat is equipped with many small plastic spikes that stimulate blood circulation and can therefore loosen tense muscles. Regular use also promotes relaxation. This can also improve stress-related symptoms of SPS in the long term.
Diet plays an important role in SPS disease
In order to improve their own quality of life, people with SPS disease should definitely pay attention to their diet. Antioxidant-rich foods such as fruit and vegetables (especially berries, spinach and broccoli) can reduce inflammation. Fish such as salmon and mackerel as well as linseed and walnuts also help to reduce inflammatory processes. Dairy products can promote bone health. Regular sunbathing is also important because UV light promotes the formation of vitamin D in the body, which is important for bone health and stability.
Sugar and processed foods with lots of saturated fats are considered to promote inflammation. These foods should therefore not be included in the diet of people with SPS.