Blog
PSP/CBD
Posted: 12/10/2023
Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a condition that causes changes in movement, language, and behaviour. In its typical form, PSP causes difficulties with balance that lead to frequent falls. Changes in eye movements, slowed general movement, stiffness, and difficulty walking are also common. This is due to the abnormal build up of a chemical called Tau Protein in the brain.
Unfortunately getting a correct diagnosis can take years: in 2022, 36% of people with undiagnosed PSP visited their GP more than three times times with various symptoms before being referred to a neurologist. This is because many other conditions can mimic PSP. Sometimes the disease is confused with Parkinsons which can create a delay in diagnosis. However, eye movement problems are a very characteristic symptom of PSP, which can help pinpoint the correct diagnosis - although these are often discovered when a doctor examines a person already known to have the condition. Optometrist detection of eye movement problems can lead to earlier diagnosis and so the PSP Association are keen to raise awareness to help speed the process up.
Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) is a degenerative brain disease that affects people a little younger, (from the age of 40 onwards) and it can also affect eye movements although less commonly than PSP. Cognitive problems are common in CBD and are often one of the first symptoms that families notice, particularly apathy, impulsive behaviour, changes in empathy and language changes. People diagnosed with CBD may go on to develop features of PSP and vice versa.
If you are concerned about eye movement problems yourself, or in a relative, ask your optometrist to carry out some simple eye movement tests. If this highlights any issues, they will be able to refer onwards to a doctor/neurologist for further investigations, and you can ask them to cite the possibility of PSP/CBD in their referral. To book an appointment for an eye examination at your local Rawlings Opticians & Hearing Care, click here.
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