Overview
In the body, the nervous system has two major divisions: the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. Autonomic neuropathy, a subtype of peripheral neuropathy, involves damage to one type of nerve in the peripheral nervous system: the autonomic nerves. These nerves control multiple involuntary functions and internal organs, like digestion. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy develop slowly. The nerve damage may be repaired if the cause of the neuropathy is treated.
Causes
Three types of disorders are the common cause of autonomic neuropathy: diabetes, amyloidosis and autoimmune disorders, according to the Merck Manual Home Edition. Amyloidosis, a condition in which the patient has abnormal protein buildup, puts pressure on the nerves, which can damage them. Autoimmune disorders, like rheumatoid arthritis, cause the immune system to attack the body, which includes the autonomic nerves. Diabetes can also result in autonomic neuropathy if the patient does not have her blood sugar levels under control. Autonomic neuropathy can also be caused by Guillain Barre syndrome, Parkinson’s disease or HIV/AIDS.
Symptoms
The NIH notes that three areas of the body are mainly affected by autonomic neuropathy: the heart, urinary tract and digestive tract. For example, the patient can have dizziness when standing, urinary incontinence or nausea after eating. Other types of symptoms include fainting, heat intolerance, male impotence and abnormal sweating.
Risk Factors
The Mayo Clinic states that certain people have an increased risk of developing autonomic neuropathy, such as people with diabetes and uncontrolled blood sugar. Other risk factors include alcoholism, high blood pressure, smoking and obesity, all conditions that damage or put excess pressure on the autonomic nerves.
Treatment
Different medications reduce the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy, such as salt tablets for fluid volume, according to the NIH. Other medication options include fludrocortisone for postural hypotension, and proamatine for a drop in blood pressure. Non-drug treatment options include elastic stockings, sleeping with an elevated head and small, frequent meals.
Complications
Some of the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy can result in complications. For example, the patient can get injured from the dizziness when standing, or kidney failure from urine backup, according to the NIH. The patient may also have malnutrition, electrolyte imbalance or embarrassment from impotence. These complications occur if the patient does not properly treat his symptoms, such as by refusing to take medication.
About this Author
Lia Stannard has her Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience with an emphasis on neuropsychology. She is a certified sexual assault crisis counselor. She has presented her research in memory at several national conferences. Stannard has been a freelance writer for more than five years, covering women’s health, politics and medicine.
