Dysautonomia Glossary of Terms

Dysautonomia and POTS - Glossary of Terms

A

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): A part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation. Dysautonomia refers to any disorder of the ANS and is pivotal in conditions like POTS, where these systems malfunction.

Arrhythmia: An irregular heart rhythm, which can occur in individuals with POTS due to the mismanagement of heart rate by the ANS. Symptoms range from palpitations to dizziness.

Adrenal Fatigue: A controversial condition characterized by chronic fatigue and stress. While not formally recognized in medical literature, its symptoms, such as low energy and brain fog, overlap with dysautonomia.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid: An antioxidant supplement sometimes used to support nerve health and reduce oxidative stress in dysautonomia patients. It may also aid in reducing neuropathic pain.

B

Beta Blockers: Medications commonly prescribed for POTS to help manage rapid heart rates. These include propranolol and metoprolol, which may reduce symptoms like tachycardia and improve exercise tolerance.

Brain Fog: A term describing cognitive difficulties such as memory problems and lack of focus, often experienced by people with dysautonomia. It may result from poor cerebral blood flow or fatigue.

Blood Volume Expansion Therapy: Treatments aimed at increasing blood volume to reduce symptoms of POTS, such as using saline infusions, high-salt diets, or medications like fludrocortisone. This therapy can alleviate lightheadedness and improve circulation.

C

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME): A condition characterized by severe, long-lasting fatigue that is often comorbid with POTS and dysautonomia. Both conditions share overlapping symptoms, including post-exertional malaise and autonomic dysfunction.

Compression Garments: Specialized clothing, such as compression stockings, used to improve circulation and reduce blood pooling in the lower body. These garments can alleviate dizziness and fatigue during prolonged standing.

Cortisol: A stress hormone that plays a role in regulating blood pressure and metabolism. Abnormal cortisol levels can exacerbate dysautonomia symptoms, leading to fatigue and difficulty managing stress.

D

Dysautonomia: An umbrella term for disorders affecting the autonomic nervous system. POTS is one of the most well-known forms and is characterized by a range of symptoms, including tachycardia and fatigue.

Deconditioning: A state of physical decline due to inactivity, which can worsen POTS symptoms but may also result from the condition itself. Gradual physical therapy can help mitigate its effects.

Dietary Modifications: Changes in diet, such as increasing salt and water intake, often recommended for managing dysautonomia. Additional measures include avoiding sugar spikes and incorporating electrolyte-rich foods.

E

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): A common virus linked to the development of dysautonomia in some individuals. EBV infections can trigger chronic fatigue and immune system dysregulation, both of which are associated with POTS.

Electrolyte Imbalance: Abnormal levels of minerals like sodium and potassium, which can exacerbate symptoms of POTS. Hydration and electrolyte supplements are often part of treatment.

Exercise Intolerance: A hallmark symptom of POTS, where physical activity leads to worsening symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue. Graded exercise therapy can help improve tolerance over time.

F

Fludrocortisone: A medication used to increase blood volume by helping the body retain sodium, often prescribed for POTS. It may alleviate symptoms like lightheadedness and fatigue.

Fatigue: A debilitating symptom common in both POTS and other forms of dysautonomia. This can range from mild tiredness to extreme exhaustion, impacting daily life.

Functional Medicine: An approach to healthcare that focuses on root causes and holistic treatment, often utilized by patients with dysautonomia. This may include addressing nutritional deficiencies and lifestyle factors.

G

Gastrointestinal Dysmotility: A dysfunction of the digestive tract often seen in dysautonomia, causing symptoms like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea. It is linked to vagus nerve dysfunction.

Gut-Brain Axis: The bidirectional communication system between the gut and brain. Dysregulation of this axis is implicated in POTS and other autonomic disorders, affecting digestion and mental health.

Genetic Predisposition: Family history can play a role in the likelihood of developing dysautonomia. Specific genetic markers are being researched for their role in POTS and related conditions.

H

Hyperadrenergic POTS: A subtype of POTS characterized by elevated levels of norepinephrine and symptoms such as high blood pressure, anxiety, and tremors. This form is often more challenging to manage.

Hypovolemia: Low blood volume, a common issue in POTS that contributes to dizziness and fainting. Treatments focus on hydration and salt intake.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV): A measure of the variation in time between heartbeats. Reduced HRV is often seen in individuals with dysautonomia, indicating poor autonomic function.

I

IV Saline Therapy: An effective treatment for some patients with POTS to quickly expand blood volume and reduce symptoms. Regular infusions can provide temporary relief.

Immune Dysregulation: Abnormal immune system function, often linked to conditions like POTS and associated with triggers such as infections or autoimmune disorders.

L

Long COVID: A condition in which symptoms persist after recovery from COVID-19. It has been linked to the development or worsening of dysautonomia and POTS. Long COVID often includes fatigue, brain fog, and orthostatic intolerance.

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Common in dysautonomia, it can cause dizziness, fainting, and fatigue. Management strategies include hydration and medications.

Lyme Disease: A bacterial infection that can trigger dysautonomia in some individuals. Treatment for Lyme-related dysautonomia requires addressing the underlying infection.

M

Magnesium Taurate: A supplement combining magnesium and taurine, used to support nervous system health and alleviate symptoms of POTS and dysautonomia. It may help reduce muscle cramps and palpitations.

Midodrine: A medication that helps raise blood pressure, often prescribed for POTS patients with severe hypotension. It can improve symptoms like dizziness and fatigue.

Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): A condition involving abnormal mast cell activity, frequently comorbid with POTS and other forms of dysautonomia. Symptoms include flushing, itching, and gastrointestinal issues.

N

Neuropathy: Damage to peripheral nerves, often seen in individuals with forms of dysautonomia. This can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or pain.

Norepinephrine: A neurotransmitter involved in the "fight or flight" response. Abnormal levels are often seen in hyperadrenergic POTS, leading to tachycardia and anxiety.

O

Orthostatic Intolerance: Difficulty standing upright without symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting—a hallmark of POTS. This is often tested using the tilt table test.

Oxidative Stress: Cellular damage caused by free radicals. It may play a role in the pathophysiology of dysautonomia and related chronic conditions.

P

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A form of dysautonomia characterized by a significant increase in heart rate upon standing. Symptoms often include dizziness, palpitations, and fatigue.

Propranolol: A beta-blocker often used to manage heart rate in POTS patients. It can reduce tachycardia and improve exercise tolerance.

Peripheral Neuropathy: A type of nerve damage associated with some forms of dysautonomia. It can cause pain and sensory issues.

R

Rehydration Solutions: Drinks or supplements used to replenish fluids and electrolytes, essential for POTS management. Products like oral rehydration salts are often recommended.

Resting Heart Rate: The heart rate when the body is at rest. Elevated resting heart rates are common in POTS and may indicate autonomic dysfunction.

S

Salt Loading: A dietary approach to increasing salt intake, helping to retain fluids and expand blood volume in POTS patients. Salt tablets are also used.

Saline Infusions: Intravenous therapy used to alleviate severe symptoms of POTS by quickly boosting blood volume. This is often a last-resort treatment for severe cases.

Sleep Disorders: Insomnia and other sleep issues are common in individuals with dysautonomia, exacerbating fatigue and cognitive difficulties.

T

Tilt Table Test: A diagnostic test for POTS and dysautonomia that monitors heart rate and blood pressure while the patient is tilted upright. This is a gold-standard test for diagnosing orthostatic intolerance.

Tachycardia: An abnormally high heart rate, a defining feature of POTS. It often occurs upon standing and can cause palpitations and fatigue.

Trigger Avoidance: Identifying and avoiding factors like heat, dehydration, or stress that can exacerbate symptoms. This is a key part of symptom management.

V

Vagus Nerve: A critical nerve involved in autonomic control. Dysfunction of the vagus nerve is implicated in many forms of dysautonomia and can affect digestion, heart rate, and mood.

Vasoconstriction: The narrowing of blood vessels, which can be impaired in dysautonomia, leading to symptoms like pooling of blood in the lower body.

Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients like Vitamin D, B12, and magnesium are often associated with dysautonomia. Addressing these deficiencies can improve symptoms.

W

Water Intake: Staying hydrated is crucial for managing POTS symptoms and preventing blood pressure drops. Electrolyte-enhanced water is often recommended.

Warm Bath Intolerance: Heat can exacerbate symptoms of dysautonomia, causing dizziness, fatigue, and even fainting. Patients are advised to avoid hot environments.

Y

Yoga Therapy: Gentle forms of yoga can help improve blood flow, manage stress, and enhance overall well-being in dysautonomia patients. Specific poses that avoid standing are often recommended.

Younger Onset: POTS frequently develops in young women, especially during adolescence or early adulthood. Hormonal changes may play a role in its onset.