Autonomic neuropathy

Overview Autonomic (autonomic) neuropathy occurs when there is damage to the nerves that control the body's automatic functions. It can affect blood pressure, temperature control, digestion, bladder function, and even sexual function. Nerve damage affects messages sent between the brain and other organs and areas of the autonomic nervous system. These areas include the heart, blood vessels, and sweat glands. Diabetes is the most common cause of autonomic neuropathy. It can also be caused by other medical conditions, viral or bacterial infections, or by certain medications. Symptoms and treatment methods vary based on the affected nerves. symptoms Signs and symptoms of autonomic neuropathy depend on which nerves are damaged. They may include the following: Dizziness and fainting upon standing. This occurs due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Problems urinating, such as difficulty starting urination, lack of bladder control, difficulty feeling the bladder is full, and inability to completely empty the bladder. Inability to completely empty the bladder can cause a urinary tract infection. Sexual problems, including the inability to initiate or maintain an erection, or problems with ejaculation. In women, problems revolve around vaginal dryness, decreased sexual desire, and difficulty achieving orgasm. Problems digesting food, such as feeling full after eating small bites of food, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and heartburn. All of these problems occur as a result of changes in the function of the digestive system. Inability to notice low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), because characteristic signs such as tremor do not appear. Sweating problems, such as sweating too much or too little. These problems affect the ability to regulate body temperature. Delayed pupil reaction, which causes difficulty adjusting when moving from light to darkness, in addition to blurry vision at night. Activity intolerance, which means the heart stays at its normal rhythm instead of adapting to the body's activity. When do you visit the doctor? Seek medical care right away if you notice any signs or symptoms of neuritis, especially if you have difficult-to-control diabetes. If she has type 2 diabetes; The American Diabetes Association recommends screening for autonomic neuropathy from the time symptoms are recognized. For people with type 1 diabetes; The association recommends annual screening starting five years after symptoms appear. ask for appointment the reasons There are many health conditions that can cause autonomic neuropathy. The disease can also be a side effect of treatment for other diseases, such as cancer. Some common causes of autonomic neuropathy include: Diabetes is the most common cause of autonomic neuropathy, especially if it is poorly controlled. Diabetes can cause gradual nerve damage throughout the body. Abnormal protein buildup in organs (amyloidosis), affecting the organs and nervous system. Autoimmune diseases, which cause the immune system to attack and damage parts of the body, including nerves. Examples include Sjögren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease. Guillain-Barré syndrome is an autoimmune disease that worsens quickly and can affect the autonomic nerves. Autonomic neuropathy may also be caused by an immune system attack triggered by some types of cancer (paraneoplastic syndrome). Certain medications, including some drugs used in cancer chemotherapy. Some viruses and bacteria, such as HIV and the bacteria that cause botulism and Lyme disease. Some genetic disorders can also cause autonomic neuropathy. Risk factors Factors that may increase your risk of developing autonomic neuropathy include: diabetic. Diabetes, especially if not properly controlled, increases the risk of autonomic neuropathy and nerve damage. This risk increases if you have difficulty controlling your blood sugar. Other diseases. Certain health conditions, including amyloidosis, porphyria and hypothyroidism, may increase your risk of autonomic neuropathy. These conditions also include cancer, often as a result of side effects of treatment. protection Some inherited diseases that put you at risk for autonomic neuropathy cannot be prevented. But you can slow the onset or progression of symptoms by taking care of your overall health and controlling your health conditions. To manage diseases and conditions, follow your doctor's advice about a healthy lifestyle. These tips may include the following recommendations: Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking. Take appropriate treatment if you have an autoimmune disease. Take steps to prevent or control high blood pressure. Reach and maintain a healthy weight. Do exercise regularly.