Dysautonomia

Dysautonomia is the dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS is responsible for the “automatic” functions of our body that we do not consciously think about, like heart rate, blood pressure, dilation and constriction of the pupils, digestion, kidney function, temperature control, and so forth. There are two components to the ANS, which are:

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Sympathetic nervous system: controls how your body responds to dangerous or stressful situations, think “fight or flight mode”

Parasympathetic nervous system: controls your body’s rest and digestion response when the body is relaxed, resting, or feeding, by decreasing respiration and heart rate and increasing digestion, it functions to “calm your body down” after a stressful situation

 

There are many forms of dysautonomia, but the most common are Parkinson's 

Disease, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and multiple sclerosis. People with dysautonomia have difficulty regulating these system, which can result in:

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Unstable and changing blood pressure

Abnormal heart rate, either elevated or lowered 

Lightheadedness/dizziness 

Fainting

Malnutrition 

Exercise intolerance

Hypersensitivity to light or sound

 

Dysautonomia is not rare, but often goes untreated due to lack of awareness. While it can’t be cured, Physical Therapy is a great tool to aid in the treatment of dysautonomia. If you or someone you love is experiencing these symptoms, or are seeking treatment options for Parkingson’s Disease, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or other neurological conditions, request an appointment with Prime Physio Physical Therapy in Bronxville, NY or Mamaroneck, NY. 

 

Our highly trained physical therapists will work with you to create a plan or add to your current program so you can get back to a normal life, by treating your motor and sensory systems.