Have you ever felt woozy when you stood up? And maybe it was so bad you actually fainted. One possibility is you have a form of dysautonomia called postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, or POTS.
Dysautonomia actually describes a group of diseases. In addition to POTS, it includes multiple system atrophy, autonomic neuropathy and autonomic failure. With each of these conditions, neuropathy interferes with the nerves that relay the signals from the brain and spinal cord. This in turn can affect the sweat glands, heart, intestines, eyes, bladder, and blood vessels.
To be accurately diagnosed, a number of tests are conducted. They include functional testing of the autonomic nervous system, as well as tests to find out if there are any underlying diseases that may mimic the symptoms of dysautonomia. There is no cure, but patients can be treated for their symptoms.
As with all rare diseases, raising awareness is crucial to not only the patients, but also to help fund research efforts.
Dysautonomia International will host its 5th Annual Conference at the Sheraton Tysons Hotel, just outside of Washington, D.C., July 14 – 17, 2017. It will feature educational seminars, speakers, and social events.
With over 600 guests, this is the largest conference on autonomic disorders bringing together patients, caregivers, researchers, physicians, industry representatives, non-profit leaders, and government policy makers. To register for the event, click here.
