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The symptoms of Autonomic Neuropathy
Noticable increase or decrease of sweating.
Dimished tear production.
Wild swings in blood pressure up/down.
Delay in stomach emptying.
Severe constipation.
Uncontrolled diarrhea.
Can’t urinate/can’t control urination.
Decreased pulse, increased pulse.
Pupil dilates, pupil contracts.
Impotence.
Autonomic nerves regulate the functions of various glands including the pancreas, liver and sexual organs. The autonomic nerve function includes things such as activity of the bowel, sweating, emptying of the stomach and bladder and the speed of the heart beat. Autonomic nerves function automatically - you can decide to move your finger but you can’t make your heart beat slower. Nerve impairment may cause dilation of the eye. Dysfunction of the nerves can also cause a sudden drop in blood pressure on standing, causing either fainting or possible a stroke. All these symptoms can be treated and can get better.
Testing for autonomic nerve function involves two maneuvers which take advantage of differences between each heartbeat, and can easily be measured electronically using a modified EKG machine. First, very small changes in the heart beat are measured while blowing against pressure. Second, coming up from a sitting to a standing position is measured. A value is calculated by combining the results of these two measurements. The changes between beats are extremely small but can be measured very accurately electronically.
Diabetes and age are common causes of autonomic nerve dysfunction. If you are beginning an exercise program and have autonomic impairment, your heart rate will not go to the age-related target levels for maximal exercise. If you try to reach age-related target levels, the heart may just stop. Sensory nerves travel with the autonomic nerves - both are damaged by the same process. Angina pectoris will not be felt and thus you many be unaware that your heart is not getting enough blood. A heart attack may be imminent. Again, this can be treated and the heart attack avoided.
Treatment for autonomic nerve dysfunction is similar to that for peripheral neuropathy. Medicines to increase blood supply to the nerves, good glucose control and especially good metabolic control are important. Response to treatment is much slower that of peripheral neuropathy and may take years.