What are the signs of autonomic nervous system problems in neuropathy?

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June 23, 2024

Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.

What are the signs of autonomic nervous system problems in neuropathy?

Signs of Autonomic Nervous System Problems in Neuropathy

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. When neuropathy affects the autonomic nerves, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that impact these functions. Here are the key signs of autonomic nervous system problems in neuropathy:

1. Cardiovascular Symptoms

Orthostatic Hypotension:

  • A significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. This occurs because the autonomic nerves fail to regulate blood pressure properly when changing positions​ (AJMC)​​ (Health.mil)​.

Tachycardia:

  • An abnormally fast heart rate, especially when standing up. This compensates for the drop in blood pressure due to orthostatic hypotension.

Sources:

2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Gastroparesis:

  • Delayed emptying of the stomach contents, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food.

Constipation or Diarrhea:

  • Irregular bowel movements, including chronic constipation or episodes of diarrhea, often alternating. These symptoms arise from disrupted nerve signals affecting intestinal motility.

Sources:

3. Genitourinary Symptoms

Bladder Dysfunction:

  • Difficulty emptying the bladder completely (urinary retention) or involuntary leakage of urine (incontinence). These issues result from impaired nerve signals to the bladder muscles.

Sexual Dysfunction:

  • Erectile dysfunction in men and decreased sexual response in women, including vaginal dryness and difficulty achieving orgasm.

Sources:

4. Sweating Abnormalities

Hyperhidrosis:

  • Excessive sweating, which can occur even without physical exertion or elevated temperature.

Anhidrosis:

  • Reduced or absent sweating, leading to difficulty regulating body temperature and increased risk of heat-related illnesses.

Sources:

5. Pupillary Changes

Abnormal Pupil Responses:

  • Pupils may not respond appropriately to light, causing issues with vision, especially in low light conditions. This can include difficulty adjusting to bright lights or darkness.

Sources:

6. Respiratory and Other Symptoms

Breathing Difficulties:

  • Difficulty in regulating breathing patterns, which can lead to problems such as sleep apnea.

Thermoregulatory Issues:

  • Problems regulating body temperature, leading to heat intolerance or frequent cold spells.

Sources:

Conclusion

Autonomic neuropathy can cause a wide range of symptoms due to the disruption of involuntary bodily functions controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for diagnosis and management. Working closely with healthcare providers can help manage these symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by neuropathy.

References

  1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet
  2. Mayo Clinic: Autonomic Neuropathy
  3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): Gastroparesis
  4. American Diabetes Association: Digestive System and Diabetic Neuropathy
  5. American Urological Association: Bladder Dysfunction
  6. Cleveland Clinic: Erectile Dysfunction
  7. International Hyperhidrosis Society: Hyperhidrosis
  8. Mayo Clinic: Anhidrosis
  9. American Academy of Ophthalmology: Pupil Disorders
  10. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): Sleep Apnea
  11. Cleveland Clinic: Thermoregulatory Issues


Neuropathy No More By JODI KNAPP Neuropathy No More is an eBook which is a compilation of all the essential information and details about the nervous system and how to keep it active and healthy. With the help of this program, one can get a relief from the symptoms of neuropathy. This eBook not only tells you about the nervous system, but also helps to provide essential information to get relief from the condition of neuropathy. It also provides information about how you can prevent this condition from coming back in the near future.