Autonomic dysfunction (dysautonomia)

Overview

Diabetes, Parkinson's, and long COVID can cause it.

The nerves that control heart rate and blood pressure don't work well.

Standing up can cause dizziness.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Dizziness on standing
• Dizzy or lightheaded when standing up

Less common

• Fast heartbeat
• Sweating changes
• Constipation

Look up a symptom: Dizzy or lightheaded when standing up · Feeling faint or about to pass out · Racing or pounding heartbeat

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve damage.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diabetes

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Tilt test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Fluids and salt if advised
• Stand slowly
• Stand up slowly
• Drink extra fluids and salt if advised

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid dehydration

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Young women: POTS is most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most improve with fluids, salt, and exercise.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Autonomic dysfunction (dysautonomia)