Autonomic symptoms are physical changes experienced in the body due to dysfunction (impaired functioning) of the autonomic nervous system (ANS).
The ANS is a complex network of nerves that regulates involuntary body functions such as:
- Heart rate
- Blood pressure
- Breathing
- Digestion
- Sweating
- Temperature regulation
- Pupil dilation
- Bladder and bowel function
- Sexual arousal
Since the ANS controls such a wide range of functions, autonomic symptoms can be diverse and affect various parts of the body.
Here are some examples of common autonomic symptoms:
- Cardiovascular: Palpitations, racing heart, lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
- Respiratory: Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, rapid breathing
- Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain
- Thermoregulatory: Excessive sweating, chills, hot flashes, feeling cold or hot easily
- Pupillary: Dilated pupils, constricted pupils
- Urogenital: Urinary urgency or frequency, difficulty controlling urination, sexual dysfunction
It’s important to note that these symptoms are not specific to autonomic dysfunction and can occur in various other conditions. Therefore, a diagnosis of autonomic dysfunction is based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and potentially specialized testing.
If you experience persistent or concerning autonomic symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.