Dysautonomia

Dysautonomia comprises a group of disorders caused by abnormal regulation of the functions of the autonomic nervous system. It is estimated that about 10% of children, adolescents and young people present it.

The regulation of these functions does not depend on our will; revolves around the “sympathetic and parasympathetic” systems. The sympathetic is stimulating (for example, increased blood pressure, heart rate, generates the production of adrenaline and increases the speed of nerve transmission) and parasympathetic lowers blood pressure, decreases heart rate, induces relaxation and rest . The two systems are generally in balance, allowing us to adapt to the environment. So vital is this harmonious maintenance that a slight breakdown of this balance can translate into dysautonomia, which affects many organs, where the cardiovascular system helps to compensate for the body’s imbalance, but is not the source of the problem.

Etiology

Although the causes have not yet been well clarified, it is thought that it may be caused or aggravated by viruses, genetic factors, exposure to toxic products, autoimmune diseases, and wounds or trauma that have damaged the autonomic nervous system. It is not contagious.

Clinical manifestations

Sweating of hands and feet that remain stress or tension cold, sensation of intense cold, cold sweat; tachycardia, bradycardia (and / or arrhythmias), palpitations, functional murmurs, chest pain, disturbances in blood pressure (usually low pressure), dizziness, fainting, or pre-syncope states, gastrointestinal problems, nausea, insomnia, tiredness, anxiety, tremors, numbness of hands and feet, frequent urination, blurred or tunnel vision, and headaches, phobias, among others.

Diagnosis

The pediatric cardiologist will evaluate the symptoms and regulate the behavior to follow. Studies to consider: electrocardiogram, chest radiography, echocardiogram. The “Tilt Test” is useful. If the symptoms are clear, it can be ignored.

Disorders included within dysautonomia:
Postural orthostatic tachycardia
Neurocardiogenic syncope
Orthostatic intolerance
Neurally mediated hypotension
Mitral valve prolapse
Pure autonomic failure
Autonomous instability

In some cases, dysautonomia is just one component of the whole: chronic fatigue syndrome and Shy-Drager syndrome, among others.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment, but there are many things that can be done to prevent or alleviate the problem. Over time this problem tends to improve. Some patients may require cardiological medications.

General measures

Measures that can alleviate the effects of dysautonomia vary depending on the specific type of condition. In the presence of dizziness it is advisable to lie down with the lower extremities raised to facilitate the arrival of blood to the brain. In general, it is recommended to incorporate into the daily routine habits such as:

Drink 2 to 3 liters of liquids a day.
Slightly increase salt intake (in the absence of systemic high blood pressure or kidney disease). It is good to remember that it dehydrates easily from heat, vomiting, diarrhea, and the use of diuretics.
Eating small amounts of food (about 4 to 5 times a day)
Perform aerobic exercise several times a week to increase muscle tone.
Avoid standing for a long time and, if it cannot be avoided, make small movements such as standing on tiptoe or crossing your legs. The same is applicable for long-term (sitting) trips.
Wear compression stockings.