The symptoms of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), often referred to as PSB, can vary from person to person, but commonly include forgetfulness, emotional changes, movement difficulties, and visual disturbances.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the symptoms:
Emotional and Cognitive Changes:
- Increased Forgetfulness: Individuals with PSP may experience difficulty remembering things.
- Irritability and Crankiness: Personality changes, including increased irritability, are common.
- Unusual Emotional Outbursts: This can manifest as crying or laughing at inappropriate or unexpected times.
- Unexplained Anger: Sudden bouts of anger without a clear trigger can occur.
Movement-Related Symptoms:
- Tremors in the Hands: Shaking or trembling of the hands may be present.
- Slurred Speech: Difficulty articulating words clearly.
- Trouble Swallowing (Dysphagia): This can lead to choking or aspiration.
- Balance Problems: Frequent falls and difficulty maintaining balance are characteristic.
Visual Symptoms:
- Trouble Controlling Eye Movements: Difficulty moving the eyes voluntarily, particularly looking downwards. This is a hallmark symptom of PSP.
- Blurred Vision: Visual acuity may be affected.
Summary:
PSP/PSB symptoms affect movement, vision, speech, swallowing, cognition, and emotions. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing the disease and improving quality of life. Consult a medical professional for a proper assessment if you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing these symptoms. More information can be found at Johns Hopkins Medicine.