Dysautonomia, a disorder affecting the autonomic nervous system (ANS), manifests with heightened ANS activity and dysfunction in either the sympathetic or parasympathetic ANS components. It can manifest locally, as seen in reflex sympathetic dystrophy, or globally, as in pure autonomic failure. Dysautonomia may be acute and reversible, such as in Guillain-Barre syndrome, or chronic and progressive. Common conditions like diabetes and alcoholism can include dysautonomia. It can appear as a primary condition or alongside degenerative neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Examples of generalized primary dysautonomia include multiple system atrophy and familial dysautonomia. Symptoms of generalized dysautonomia may include loss of sex drive due to sympathetic failure and orthostatic hypotension, where blood pressure drops upon standing. Excessive sympathetic activity may manifest as hypertension or rapid pulse rate.
Treatment
Currently, there isn’t a standardized treatment for dysautonomia. Secondary forms may show improvement with treatment targeting the underlying disease. Typically, management of primary dysautonomia focuses on symptomatic relief and supportive care. Strategies to address orthostatic hypotension may involve elevating the head of the bed, dietary adjustments like consuming frequent small meals, and medication.