Dysautonomia

What is dysautonomia?

Dysautonomia is the umbrella term that encompasses several different conditions that cause a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS – part of the peripheral nervous system – innervates smooth and cardiac muscle and glandular tissues and governs involuntary actions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, dilation of the pupils, kidney function, sexual arousal, temperature control, etc. People living with various forms of dysautonomia have trouble regulating these systems, which can result in lightheadedness, fainting, unstable blood pressure, abnormal heart rates, and malnutrition. Dysautonomia affects an estimated 70 million people worldwide.

What are the conditions that fall under dysautonomia?

There are at least 15 distinct dysautonomias; the most common are neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Below are the most frequently reported cases of dysautonomias:

• Neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS)
• Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
• Multiple system atrophy (MSA)
• Autonomic dysreflexia (AD)
• Baroreflex failure (BF)
• Diabetic autonomic neuropathy
• Familial dysautonomia

Where can I find out more about familial chylomicronemia syndrome?

• NIH
• Dysautonomia International
• Medical News Today