The term “dysautonomia” is used to describe a variety of ailments that cause the autonomic nervous system to malfunction. In this article we we´ll talk about dysautonomia causes and link to Hashimoto’s disease.
All the automatic body systems we don’t have to think about, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion, are under the supervision of the autonomic nervous system. All of these systems are affected if it isn’t operating correctly.
Living with Dysautonomia is challenging because it is a relatively uncommon condition. According to research, 1 to 3 people out of every 100,000 are affected. It is said to take more effect in women than men.
The exact cause of Dysautonomia is unknown, but many underlying diseases, like Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Hashimoto’s, and Lyme disease, can lead to developing secondary Dysautonomia
Also, Dysautonomia is associated with neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis. If you or someone you know has Dysautonomia, you can do a few things to help manage the condition. Please keep reading to learn more about Dysautonomia and how to cope.
What is Dysautonomia?
Dysautonomia also called autonomic dysfunction or autonomic neuropathy is a chronic medical condition that affects the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system controls the body’s involuntary functions, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion.
People with Dysautonomia struggle to regulate these functions, which can cause several symptoms. There are two conditions that can cause problems with the autonomic nervous system. They are the primary and secondary dysautonomia.
Primary dysautonomia is a condition that is present from birth or develops early in life. It can occur as it’s own disorder without Secondary dysautonomia on the other hand, is a condition that develops later in life, often as a result of another condition, such as diabetes or Parkinson’s disease.
Both primary and secondary dysautonomia can cause a variety of symptoms, including lightheadedness, fainting, and difficulty regulating blood pressure and heart rate.
What is the connection between Dysautonomia and Hashimoto disease?
There’s growing evidence of a connection between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and dysautonomia. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that can lead to thyroid dysfunction and, in some cases, dysautonomia.
Studies have shown that dysautonomia is more common in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and that the two conditions may share a common underlying cause.
Thankfully, at the centre for multisystem disease screening at Schofield, there’s been great strides in the ability to screen for Hashimoto disease as patients with this illness are at higher risk of other autoimmune diseases and autoimmune dysautonomia.
Schofield is able to offer their patients a more accurate and definitive diagnosis. With their new screening methods, they can help more people get the treatment they need and improve their quality of life.
Types of Dysautonomia
There are at least 15 different types of Dysautonomia, each with its symptoms. Below are the most common:
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia (POTS)
This is the most common type of Dysautonomia and is a condition that affects the way blood circulates through the body. Due to a dip in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate, POTS sufferers frequently struggle to stand up.
According to estimates, 1 to 3 out of every 100,000 people suffer from POTS. POTS is most commonly diagnosed in adults between 15 and 50, and women are more likely than men to be affected.
- Vasovagal syncope
Vasovagal syncope can cause people to faint due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Several situations, such as seeing blood or getting a needle put in your arm, emotional stress, heat, or the sight of blood, can trigger it.
Vasovagal syncope is often not a serious condition, but if it occurs while you are driving or engaging in other tasks that call for alertness, it can be dangerous.
You can feel like you’re going to faint if you have vasovagal syncope. Additionally, you might feel dizzy, sweaty, or sick. These symptoms typically last for a few minutes before the blood pressure returns to normal and you wake up.
- Orthostatic hypotension
This is a condition in which your blood pressure drops when you stand up from a lying or sitting position. As a result, you may feel nauseous or dizzy. Dehydration, low blood sugar, or certain medications often cause orthostatic hypotension.
Older folks and those with specific medical disorders, such as diabetes, are more likely to experience it. It might also be a side effect of some illnesses, such as Parkinson’s. If you have orthostatic hypotension, you may need to change your lifestyle.
Drinking more fluids, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can help to treat the condition. You may also require medications in some situations. However, be sure to talk to your doctor to develop a treatment plan that works for you.
- Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST)
This condition triggers an abnormally fast heart rate when the heart’s sinus node, which is responsible for the heart’s natural rhythm, fires too quickly. While sinus tachycardia is a normal response to physical or emotional stress, IST is the problem when it occurs without these triggers. IST may exist on its own or be a consequence of some underlying medical problem.
Some of the symptoms of IST include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and chest pain. However, there are several possible causes of IST, such as underlying heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications. IST can also be triggered by stress or anxiety. It can also lead to problems with blood pressure and heart rhythm. In severe cases, IST can be life-threatening.
- Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy (AAG)
This disorder affects the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls involuntary body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating. In people with AAG, the ANS does not work correctly, leading to a wide range of symptoms.
AAG is believed to be autoimmune, which means the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue. This causes damage to the autonomic ganglia, clusters of nerve cells that control the ANS.
AAG can be challenging to diagnose, as its symptoms are often similar to other disorders, making it difficult to diagnose. There is no cure for AAG, but treatment can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Baroreflex Failure
The baroreflex is a neutral mechanism that helps to regulate blood pressure within a safe range. To keep blood pressure at an average level, it senses variations in blood pressure and then prompts a change in heart rate or blood vessel constriction.
However, sometimes the baroreflex can fail, leading to uncontrolled blood pressure fluctuations. This can be potentially fatal and deadly. Baroreflex failure can be caused by various medical conditions, including certain types of heart disease and hypertension. Treatment typically involves medication to help stabilize blood pressure.
- Multiple system atrophy (MSA)
This neurodegenerative disorder affects both the central nervous and peripheral nervous systems in men and women. The progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain characterizes MSA, causing several symptoms, including Parkinsonian-like movement disorders, autonomic dysfunction, and neuropsychiatric problems.
The exact cause of MSA is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although MSA does not presently have a cure, some therapies can help manage the symptoms.
MSA has a generally lousy prognosis and advances quickly in most cases. Most MSA patients pass away within ten years of diagnosis because it is a fatal condition.
- Pure autonomic failure (PAF):
This condition in which the autonomic nervous system (ANS) fails to provide the necessary regulatory functions. It is caused by an overabundance of protein that aids in transmitting nerve signals known as synuclein.
PAF can lead to several problems, including impaired heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature control. Standing-related dizziness, heat intolerance, and blurred vision are signs (due to the pupils not opening or closing fully as they should). A person with PAF may struggle with bladder control and have little to no sweat.
Pure autonomic failure (PAF) is known to typically affects more women than men. As the condition progresses in certain persons, multiple symptom atrophy (MSA) may appear.
PAF is a rare condition, and there is currently no cure. However, With the proper care, it is possible to live a whole and fulfilling life despite this condition. Treatments can help cope with the symptoms and enhance the quality of life.
- Cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSW):
This condition results in salt loss from the brain. This can lead to a decrease in the amount of water in the brain, which could have serious consequences. CSW is a rare condition after a brain injury, brain surgery, or stroke. Several drugs may be the cause.
Cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSW) includes headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and seizures. If left untreated, CSW can lead to coma and even death. Treatment for CSW typically involves replenishing the body’s salt and fluids through oral or intravenous fluids.
What are some Possible Causes of Dysautonomia?
There’s growing evidence of a connection between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and dysautonomia. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that can lead to thyroid dysfunction and, in some cases, dysautonomia.
Studies have shown that dysautonomia is more common in people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and that the two conditions may share a common underlying cause.
Thankfully, at the centre for multisystem disease screening at Schofield, there’s been great strides in the ability to screen for Hashimoto disease as patients with this illness are at higher risk of other autoimmune diseases and autoimmune dysautonomia.
Schofield is able to offer their patients a more accurate and definitive diagnosis. With their new screening methods, they can help more people get the treatment they need and improve their quality of life.
Types of Dysautonomia
There are at least 15 different types of Dysautonomia, each with its symptoms. Below are the most common:
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia (POTS)
This is the most common type of Dysautonomia and is a condition that affects the way blood circulates through the body. Due to a dip in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate, POTS sufferers frequently struggle to stand up.
According to estimates, 1 to 3 out of every 100,000 people suffer from POTS. POTS is most commonly diagnosed in adults between 15 and 50, and women are more likely than men to be affected.
- Vasovagal syncope
Vasovagal syncope can cause people to faint due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Several situations, such as seeing blood or getting a needle put in your arm, emotional stress, heat, or the sight of blood, can trigger it.
Vasovagal syncope is often not a serious condition, but if it occurs while you are driving or engaging in other tasks that call for alertness, it can be dangerous. You can feel like you’re going to faint if you have vasovagal syncope. Additionally, you might feel dizzy, sweaty, or sick.
These symptoms typically last for a few minutes before the blood pressure returns to normal and you wake up.
- Orthostatic hypotension
This is a condition in which your blood pressure drops when you stand up from a lying or sitting position. As a result, you may feel nauseous or dizzy.
Dehydration, low blood sugar, or certain medications often cause orthostatic hypotension. Older folks and those with specific medical disorders, such as diabetes, are more likely to experience it. It might also be a side effect of some illnesses, such as Parkinson’s.
If you have orthostatic hypotension, you may need to change your lifestyle. Drinking more fluids, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can help to treat the condition.
You may also require medications in some situations. However, be sure to talk to your doctor to develop a treatment plan that works for you.
- Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST)
This condition triggers an abnormally fast heart rate when the heart’s sinus node, which is responsible for the heart’s natural rhythm, fires too quickly.
While sinus tachycardia is a normal response to physical or emotional stress, IST is the problem when it occurs without these triggers. IST may exist on its own or be a consequence of some underlying medical problem.
Some of the symptoms of IST include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and chest pain. However, there are several possible causes of IST, such as underlying heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications.
IST can also be triggered by stress or anxiety. It can also lead to problems with blood pressure and heart rhythm. In severe cases, IST can be life-threatening.
- Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy (AAG)
This disorder affects the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS controls involuntary body functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and sweating.
In people with AAG, the ANS does not work correctly, leading to a wide range of symptoms. This causes damage to the autonomic ganglia, clusters of nerve cells that control the ANS.
AAG can be challenging to diagnose, as its symptoms are often similar to other disorders, making it difficult to diagnose. There is no cure for AAG, but treatment can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
- Baroreflex Failure
The baroreflex is a neutral mechanism that helps to regulate blood pressure within a safe range.
To keep blood pressure at an average level, it senses variations in blood pressure and then prompts a change in heart rate or blood vessel constriction.
However, sometimes the baroreflex can fail, leading to uncontrolled blood pressure fluctuations. This can be potentially fatal and deadly.
Baroreflex failure can be caused by various medical conditions, including certain types of heart disease and hypertension. Treatment typically involves medication to help stabilize blood pressure.
- Multiple system atrophy (MSA)
This neurodegenerative disorder affects both the central nervous and peripheral nervous systems in men and women.
The progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain characterizes MSA, leading to several symptoms, including Parkinsonian-like movement disorders, autonomic dysfunction, and neuropsychiatric problems.
Though the exact cause of MSA is unknown, researchers believe it results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Although MSA does not presently have a cure, some therapies can help manage the symptoms.
MSA has a generally lousy prognosis and advances quickly in most cases. Most MSA patients pass away within ten years of diagnosis because it is a fatal condition.
- Pure autonomic failure (PAF):
This condition in which the autonomic nervous system (ANS) fails to provide the necessary regulatory functions. It is caused by an overabundance of protein that aids in transmitting nerve signals known as synuclein.
PAF can lead to several problems, including impaired heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature control. Standing-related dizziness, heat intolerance, and blurred vision are signs (due to the pupils not opening or closing fully as they should). A person with PAF may struggle with bladder control and have little to no sweat.
Pure autonomic failure (PAF) affects more women than men. As the condition progresses in certain persons, multiple symptom atrophy (MSA) may appear. PAF is a rare condition, and there is currently no cure.
However, With the proper care, it is possible to live a whole and fulfilling life despite this condition. Treatments can help cope with the symptoms and enhance the quality of life.
- Cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSW):
This condition results in salt loss from the brain. This can lead to a decrease in the amount of water in the brain, which could have serious consequences.
CSW is a rare condition after a brain injury, brain surgery, or stroke. Several drugs may be the cause. Cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSW) includes headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and seizures.
If left untreated, CSW can lead to coma and even death. Treatment for CSW typically involves replenishing the body’s salt and fluids. This can be done through oral or intravenous fluids.
What are some Possible Causes of Dysautonomia?
Dysautonomia is caused by many different things, including:
- Autoimmune disorders: Conditions like lupus, celiac disease, diabetes, Hashimoto’s can damage autonomic nervous system (ANS).
- Infections: Viruses or bacteria can cause inflammation of the nerves which comprises the ANS.
- Trauma: Physical trauma to the head or chest can damage the autononimc nervous system (ANS).
- Tumors: Non-cancerous or cancerous tumors can press on the ANS and cause Dysautonomia. It can make it hard for the body to regulate these functions, which can cause a wide range of symptoms.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves that control the autononimc nervous system (ANS).
Symptoms of Dysautonomia
Dysautonomia can cause many symptoms, including lightheadedness, fainting, changes in blood pressure and heart rate. While the exact cause of Dysautonomia is unknown, several possible symptoms may contribute to the development of the condition.
Some of the most common symptoms of Dysautonomia include the following:
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision.
- Palpitations or highly irregular ( fast, or slow heartbeats)
- Fainting, dizziness or lightheaded
- Difficulty breathing and sleep apnea
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Changes in blood pressure levels, high or low (usually low)
- lack of appetite
- Weakness
- Intolerance to exercise
- Visual alterations
- Excessive sensitivity to noise and light
- Issues with regulating temperature
- Difficulty focusing, memory problems or brain fog
- Frequent urination
- Anxiety
- Tremors/shaking
People with Dysautonomia may also experience problems with temperature regulation, sweating, and urination. In severe cases, Dysautonomia can lead to organ failure. There is currently no cure for Dysautonomia, but treatments are available to help manage the symptoms. Still not sure?
Click on https://www.nemechekconsultativemedicine.com/quiz/ to check your autonomic nervous system balance.
How is Dysautonomia Diagnosed?
There is no one test used to diagnose Dysautonomia. Instead, diagnosis is based on a combination of medical history, symptoms, and physical examination. Your doctor will likely ask about your family history, medical history, and any medications you are taking.
They will also do a physical exam, looking for signs of low blood pressure, fast heart rate, and sweating. In some cases, your doctor may also order tests to rule out other conditions, such as thyroid problems or anemia.
Typical examinations that patients undergo include the following:
- Tilt table test
A tilt table test helps diagnose problems with the autonomic nervous system by positioning an individual on a table that can be tilted from horizontal to vertical. Doctors usually perform this test in a hospital or outpatient.
- They also monitor the person’s blood pressure and heart rate during the trial. The test is used to help diagnose conditions such as syncope, hypotension, and orthostatic hypotension.
- Breathing test: This is done to diagnose a variety of respiratory conditions. The most common type of breathing test is called spirometry. This test measures how much air you can inhale and exhale and how fast you can do it. Spirometry can diagnose asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions.
When blood pressure drops, your body should naturally narrow your blood vessels and quicken your heartbeat to compensate. However, in people with Dysautonomia, this does not occur naturally, which can lead to several symptoms, including lightheadedness and fainting.
- Gastrointestinal tests:
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a long, hollow tube that goes from the mouth to the anus. The GI tract includes the esophagus, stomach, small, large, and rectum.
Physicians frequently use gastric emptying tests to detect Dysautonomia because patients with it often exhibit sluggish transit times for meals and liquids through their intestines. Additionally, they may perform a methane breath test, hydrogen breath test, gastric emptying study, ultrasonography of the celiac artery plexus, and upper and lower endoscopy.
- The quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test
Also known as the sweat test, it measures the response of the nerves that regulate your sweat glands to stimulus. QSART diagnoses autonomic nervous system disorders, such as diabetic neuropathy and other neuropathies.
A computer reads the reaction of your nerves and sweat glands while a tiny electrical current travels through capsules positioned on your forearm, upper and lower leg, and foot. This current stimulates the nerve endings in the sweat glands, which causes localized sweating (known as the axon reflex).
The sweating response is then measured with a device called a sweat meter. During this test, it’s normal to get a warm or tingly sensation, which localized sweating (known as the axon reflex).
- Tests for bladder and urination
Some patients with bladder or urinary symptoms undergo urine or bladder tests to assess bladder function. Additionally, they could request urodynamic investigations, which measure the flow of urine in the bladder, and an ultrasound to check for any indications of infection, tumors, or other abnormalities.
- Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET)
This test involves performing some exercise on a stationary bike to gauge how well your heart and lungs work when working out. It also evaluates the effectiveness of treatments and monitors a person’s progress over time. The person wears a heart rate monitor and a mask connected to a machine that measures how much oxygen is being used and how much carbon dioxide is being exhaled. The test typically lasts for 10-12 minutes, and the results can provide valuable information about the heart and lungs.Neurocognitive Assessment
A neurocognitive assessment evaluates an individual’s cognitive abilities and functioning. This type of assessment is often used to help diagnose neurological conditions or to assess the impact of a brain injury by asking a series of questions on a computer.
During a neurocognitive assessment, various tests may be used to assess different cognitive domains, such as attention, memory, executive functioning, and language. The results of these tests can better understand how an individual’s brain is functioning and can help identify any areas of concern.
Treatments of Dysautonomia
Presently, dysautonomia has no cure, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. The treatment will help lessen the symptoms and counteract the effects of the ANS’s malfunction.
Medications can be used to help regulate blood pressure and heart rate. Physical therapy and exercise can help improve circulation, reduce fatigue, and assist a person with Dysautonomia adjust to the lifestyle changes that come with the illness, such as avoiding hot weather and standing for long periods.
Several cardiologists and neurologists, among other medical professionals, could offer assistance with a therapy strategy.
You may need to take medicine to alleviate some symptoms, and the prescription dosage may change over time to account for any physical alterations.
Additionally, your doctor may suggest that you consume 2-4 liters of water daily and up your salt consumption to 4-5 grams. Avoid caffeine and drinks with lots of sugar.
Other Modes of Treatment:
Although researchers have not proven the effectiveness of complementary therapies in treating Dysautonomia, these therapies may help individuals deal with and manage their symptoms. People might gain from:
- Mindfulness Techniques:
To be “mindful’ means to be aware of and focused on the present moment. It is the opposite of being an ”automatic pilot” or lost in thought.
When you are mindful, you are aware of your thoughts, emotions, and environment without judgement. People with Dysautonomia may also experience anxiety. However, including soothing mindfulness exercises in your routine may be beneficial. Yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques are a few examples.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT):
This therapy approach is based on the premise that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and behavior. CBT is a popular and effective therapy that helps treat various mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. It can help people control their symptoms and bring about positive changes in their lives.
- Cannabidiol (CBD):
This is one of the many active compounds found in the cannabis plant. But unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t have psychoactive effects, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana use.
CBD has various potential therapeutic effects, including reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and improving sleep. It is available in multiple forms, including oils, capsules, and tinctures.
It’s crucial to discuss the safety of CBD with your healthcare professional if you’re thinking about using it.
How to Manage or Cope with Dysautonomia
There are different ways to cope with Dysautonomia. Here are a few tips on how to do this.
- Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Put on compression clothing to improve blood flow.
- Avoid large crowds and hot environments. Shower and bathe in lukewarm or cool water to prevent heat
- Consistently check your blood pressure and heart rate.
- Avoid sudden changes in position. Spend as little time as possible standing or sitting still.
- Consult with your doctor for nutrient deficiencies to restore them with vitamins and minerals::C, D-3, B1(thiamine), B6, B12, Folate, K7, Q10, E, zinc, magnesium, and Iron, melatonin.
- Take pauses from work or school, for instance, if your body urges you to relax.
- Raise your feet, sit down, or lie down whenever you feel lightheaded.
- Before using any OTC (over-the-counter) medication, vitamins, or minerals, consult your doctor. Take prescription drugs as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid caffeine and artificial sweeteners.
- Avoid exposure to chemicals, toxins, and heavy metals in food, water, hygiene products, cosmetics, creams, perfumes, etc.
- Consume a healthy and balanced diet with organic vegetables, fruits, grass-fed meats, and wild seafood. Avoid simple sugars, carbohydrates, sodas, alcohol, and tobacco.
By following these tips, you can manage your symptoms and live a relatively everyday life with Dysautonomia.
Conclusion
Dysautonomia is a complex disorder with many possible causes. At the same time, the exact cause of Dysautonomia is unknown. A variety of factors may cause the development of the condition. For instance, immune diseases can cause dysautonomia, and dysautonomia can also be a symptom of immune disease.
Treatment for both diseases often includes medications to help control the symptoms. It is essential to check for nutrient deficiency to restore them. Dysautonomia can be a debilitating disorder, but with proper management and treatment, many people with Dysautonomia can lead fulfilling lives.
References
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6004-dysautonomia
- https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/neuroscience/neurology/neurological-conditions/dysautonomia
- https://thedysautonomiaproject.org/identifying-dysautonomia/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/76785
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/hashimotos-disease
