Tag: treatements

What Is Dysautonomia? A Comprehensive Guide For Patients and Caregivers

As a chiropractic neurology clinic, you can imagine we encounter patients struggling with a variety of neurological disorders. One of the main conditions we see and treat is dysautonomia. 

Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for a complex neurological disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system. It causes a range of symptoms and can present in a variety of ways that can be challenging to diagnose and manage. 

This condition isn’t rare either. Dysautonomia International estimates that over 70 million people have some form of this condition. Despite its widespread population, it takes most patients years to receive a diagnosis simply because they’re unaware of what dysautonomia is.

At Lancaster Brain & Spine, we aim to increase awareness of complex conditions by educating our patients. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what dysautonomia is, and cover the symptoms, causes and treatment options for this condition. 

What Is Dysautonomia?

Our autonomic nervous system regulates many of the body’s automatic functions. This includes things like your heart rate, blood pressure, digestion and temperature control. Dysautonomia occurs when there is a dysfunction in this system, resulting in a range of symptoms that can affect many of your body’s functions. 

Dysautonomia can be a primary condition, meaning that it’s a result of a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system itself. Or it can be a secondary condition, meaning it’s the result of an underlying condition, such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Lyme disease or multiple sclerosis. 

Symptoms Of Dysautonomia

How dysautonomia presents in the body can vary greatly from person to person. These symptoms can include:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing
  • Fainting or near-fainting (known as syncope)
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat (known as tachycardia or arrhythmia)
  • Palpitations
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Brain fog or cognitive difficulties
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Bladder dysfunction
  • Excessive sweating or lack of sweating
  • Temperature intolerance
  • Insomnia or disturbed sleep

If you’re experiencing any combination of these symptoms, please contact us for a free phone consultation.

The Different Types Of Dysautonomia

There are three main forms of dysautonomia that we diagnose patients with:  

  1. Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS)

Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS) or Vasovagal Syncope is the most common form of dysautonomia. It’s a typical cause of fainting that relates to a malfunction in the autonomic nervous system. In NCS, a sudden and brief drop in blood pressure and heart rate occurs, leading to a lack of blood flow to the brain and causing you to faint. 

Emotional stress, pain or prolonged standing can often be triggers of NCS.

Symptoms of NCS include:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea or sweating
  • A sudden feeling of warmth or coldness
  1. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) 

A rapid increase in heart rate without a significant decrease in heart rate characterizes POTS. This sensation can occur when a person moves from lying down to standing up. The body is unable to adjust to the change in posture, causing blood to pool in the lower extremities and reducing blood flow to the brain. 

Symptoms of POTS include:

  • Lightheadedness
  • Occasional fainting
  • Palpitations
  • Headaches
  • Brain fog 
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Exercise intolerance
  • Tremors
  • Nausea
  1. Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that usually occurs in older adults. A build-up of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain leads to the death of nerve cells and causes MSA.

MSA is a rare and often difficult-to-diagnose condition. Early recognition and management of symptoms is important for improving quality of life.

Symptoms of MSA include:

  • Problems with movement or balance
  • Blood pressure changes
  • Bladder control issues

Causes Of Dysautonomia

The causes of dysautonomia can vary, depending on what type you might have. 

Primary dysautonomia can be genetic or idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. While secondary dysautonomia can be the result of various underlying conditions, including:

  • Diabetes
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Lyme disease
  • Sjogren’s syndrome
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosing dysautonomia can be challenging. As you’ve seen, the symptoms are often vague and overlap with many other possible conditions. 

That’s why, at Lancaster Brain & Spine, we examine “the whole you,” not just the symptoms you come in with. We’ll look at your past history and your body’s various systems while asking extensive questions and performing a thorough examination.

Our specialist diagnostic testing includes tilt-table tests, heart rate variability, videonystagmography and autonomic function that we have in-house at our Lancaster, PA clinic. These extensive testing facilities are why so many surrounding clinics send their neurological patients our way.

The treatment for dysautonomia depends on the underlying cause and the specific symptoms presented. In some cases, lifestyle changes can have a very beneficial impact, such as:

  • Increasing salt and fluid intake
  • Wearing compression socks
  • Regular exercise
  • Staying hydrated
  • Avoiding triggers

At our Lancaster-based clinic, we administer treatment and monitor you throughout the process. We also perform therapies in stages, from lying down to tilted or standing, to ensure consistent, but not overwhelming, growth. We track the variability of regulating blood pressure, heart rate and breathing and aim to improve your symptoms with the least discomfort possible.

That’s why we offer intensive weeks. We can improve neurological problems with consistent treatment spread out over a few days due to the brain’s neuroplasticity. Wondering if an intensive week could work for you? Book a free 15-minute telephone consult to discuss this treatment option with our staff. 

Living With Dysautonomia

Living with this condition can be challenging. But it is possible to manage symptoms and lead a fulfilling life. The best way to do this? Work with knowledgeable professionals who can create a custom dysautonomia treatment plan for you. Depending on your circumstances, this plan may include medical intervention or lifestyle modifications. Whatever the recommended treatment, it’s a plan to help you get back to living your best life. 

Want A Second Opinion?

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with dysautonomia, we recommend you seek a professional opinion. 

Request a free telephone consultation with us by completing our quick contact form. One of our lovely staff will arrange a call between you and one of our experts, where we can discuss your symptoms and the next best steps. 

At Lancaster Brain & Spine, we specialize in invisible pain, so you’re in safe hands.

Book your free 15-minute telephone consult with us here.

A Guide To Diagnosing Peripheral Neuropathy: 10 Ways To Self-Assess At Home

We all know that regular health assessments are crucial for maintaining good health. Not only can they help us detect problems early on, but they also provide valuable insight into your overall well-being. 

While your primary care physician may perform health assessments during your annual check-up, you can also take responsibility for your health by conducting tests and screenings at home. By regularly performing self-assessments, you can identify warning signs or symptoms of various conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy. 

We’re here to help you understand what peripheral neuropathy is, so you’re better equipped to detect the early warning signs at home. 

First Things First — What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, causing them to work improperly. This nerve damage or irritation can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as tingling, numbness, weakness and pain. 

It’s most commonly felt in the hands and feet, and can appear as a change in sensation, perception or strength, often described as “weakness” or “atrophy.” 

Some signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:

  • Gradual onset of numbness, prickling or tingling in your feet or hands, which can spread upward into your legs and arms
  • Sharp, jabbing, throbbing or burning pain
  • Extreme sensitivity to touch or muscle weakness
  • Pain during activities that shouldn’t cause pain, such as putting weight on your feet or when they’re under a blanket
  • Lack of coordination and falling
  • Feeling as if you’re wearing gloves or socks when you’re not

Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy 

There are various conditions that can cause peripheral neuropathy. For example, many people with diabetes will develop some type of neuropathy. Many inherited disorders, tumors, autoimmune diseases and infections can also be a cause.

Peripheral neuropathy is a common condition, but often there is a lack of information about recognizing signs and symptoms. This is a problem, because the sooner you can catch or identify nerve damage, the better chance you have at restoring it to its original state.   

Now a physician can diagnose peripheral neuropathy, but knowing when to seek further help leaves many people feeling unsure. Self-assessment allows you to check if you should seek a professional opinion. Below you’ll find a self-assessment diagnostic that you can use in the comfort of your home.

10 Ways To Self-Assess For Peripheral Neuropathy At Home

To complete this self-assessment, find a quiet place, a pen and a piece of paper. Either physically complete the tests or answer the questions, and then note your score. You can also ask a loved one to help you perform the tests, or self-assess your loved one. 

If you answer “no” to any of the following questions, add 1 point.

1. Can you reach into your purse or wallet, and correctly identify the type of coin? 

2. If you put your hand under running water, can you tell if it’s warm or cold, simply by touch? Does it feel the same on both hands? 

3. Is there a visible color difference between your hands or feet? One might look bluer or redder, while the other is a normal skin tone.

4. Can you tell the difference between the sharp and dull ends of an object, say a pen, while your eyes are closed? Is this sensation the same for every finger and toe?

5. When you’re barefoot, can you tell the type of floor you’re touching? Can you tell if it’s a fluffy carpet or rough hardwood? Can you feel the seams in the wood?

If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, add 1 point.

6. Do you have hypersensitivity or difficulty with certain footwear feeling constrictive or unsupportive?

7. Do you feel like you constantly need to wear gloves or mittens outside to maintain a constant temperature sensation in your hands?

8. Do you have discoloration from one finger to the next? Does one nail look less healthy than another on either your hands or feet?

9. Do you often trip or stumble?

10. Do you often burn or cut yourself in the kitchen?

What’s your final score? If you or your loved one scored at least 1 point, that could indicate a potential peripheral neuropathy, and you should seek a professional medical opinion. 

Want our opinion? Request a complimentary telephone consultation by completing our quick 5-question contact form. If we think it’s necessary, we’ll invite you in for further testing. 

What Does Getting A Diagnosis Look Like?

Understanding your condition depends on your individual circumstances, but it usually starts with seeking a medical opinion and undergoing diagnostic tests, which may include:

  1. Bedside examination — an in-person examination helps diagnose the structure and functional capacity.
  1. Bloodwork — this is a common first step, and involves drawing blood and testing it for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
  1. Diagnostic testing — there is equipment called an EMG (Electromyography), which can determine the specific nerve location and extent of the damage.
  1. Nerve biopsy — this is a more invasive procedure, but along with genetic testing, it can help determine why you have peripheral neuropathy and what can be done to improve it.

Non-Invasive Treatment Options 

Peripheral neuropathy can be treated using various methods, with many options for non-invasive or non-surgical treatment options. Laser therapy, for example, has been widely proven to help heal symptoms related to peripheral neuropathy.

Want Our Professional Medical Opinion?

If you think you might have peripheral neuropathy, request a complimentary telephone consultation by completing our quick 5-question contact form here.