Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a rare brain condition that affects movement, balance, vision, and thinking. It happens when certain brain cells gradually become damaged over time. Common symptoms include issues with balance, cognitive difficulties, and eye movement issues, but can also include changes in mood or personality and visual hallucinations
What causes PSP?
PSP is linked to a buildup of a protein called tau in the brain. Tau is normally present in healthy nerve cells, helping them function properly. In PSP, however, this protein builds up abnormally, leading to the death of brain cells in areas that control movement, coordination, and eye movements. The condition most commonly affects people in their 60s and 70s.
While researchers are unsure about the cause of PSP, it is not believed to be an inherited condition.
Common symptoms
The symptoms of PSP typically develop slowly and worsen over several years. In its early stages, PSP may resemble Parkinson’s disease, but PSP progresses faster than Parkinson’s disease. Common symptoms of PSP may include:
- Frequent falls, especially backward
- Stiffness in the legs or neck
- Choking or coughing while eating
- Trouble looking up or down
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty maintaining eye contact
- Slurred or slow speech
- Difficulty with memory and thinking
- Irritability, apathy, depression, or other behavioral changes
- Sensitivity to bright lights
Diagnosis and treatment
There is currently no cure for PSP, but there are treatments and therapies that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough neurological exam, brain imaging (such as an MRI), and sometimes referral to a movement disorder specialist.
Treatment for PSP may include medication, physical and occupational therapy, and speech therapy. These treatments are designed to improve quality of life for the individual by mitigating symptoms, reducing risk of falls or accidents, and supporting independence for as long as possible.
When it may be time to talk with a professional
You should see a doctor if you or a loved one experiences unexplained balance problems, frequent falls, changes in eye movement, or new difficulties with speech or swallowing. Early evaluation by a neurologist can help rule out other causes and begin supportive care sooner.
Isaac Health’s specialists can provide expert evaluation and care for people experiencing symptoms of PSP and other neurodegenerative conditions. We work with patients and families to manage symptoms, improve daily function, and plan for future care needs with compassion and understanding.