New Patient Information

Office information
Monday – Friday
8:30am to 4:30pm
Appointment Line: 832.325.6516
Clinic Fax: 713.383.1478

At our institution, we have a most informative physiological tilt table test using a Task Force Monitor® and Nonin Monitor® which enable continuous measures of brain blood flow, circulation in the chest (cardiac stroke volume), sympathetic and parasympathetic tone changes, muscle blood flow and peripheral vascular resistance.

What is dysautonomia?

Dysautonomia is an umbrella medical term utilized for a group of complex conditions that are caused by a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The ANS regulates all of the unconscious functions of the body, including the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal system, metabolic system, and endocrine system. A dysfunction of the ANS can cause debilitating symptoms and may pose significant challenges for effective medical treatment. Orthostatic intolerance (the inability to remain upright) is a hallmark of the various forms of dysautonomia. Dysautonomia conditions can range from mild to extremely debilitating. Each dysautonomia case is unique and treatment must be individualized and may include pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Patients should be evaluated by a physician who is well-versed in the recent treatment modalities. To diagnose dysautonomia, a tilt-table test is usually performed. This test evaluates how the patient regulates blood pressure in response to simple stresses. Tilt-table testing involves placing the patient on a special table with a foot-support. The table is tilted upward while various machines monitor blood pressure, electrical impulses in the heart and oxygen levels. The following diagnostic terms may be issued to children with forms of dysautonomia:

  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
  • Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS)
  • Vasovagal Syncope
  • Neurally Mediated Hypotension (NMH)
  • Post-Viral Dysautonomia
  • Familial Dysautonomia (FD)
  • Non-Familial Dysautonomia
  • Generalized Dysautonomia

The symptoms of dysautonomia conditions are usually “invisible” to the untrained eye. The manifestations are occurring internally, and although the symptoms are verified medically they are often not visible on the outside. Symptoms can be unpredictable, may come and go, appear in any combination, and may vary in severity. Often patients will become more symptomatic after exposure to heat, stressors, excitement or physical activity. Patients may find themselves involuntarily limiting their lifestyle activities and isolating themselves in order to compensate for the conditions.

Dysautonomia conditions are widely unknown to society at large. As a result, there exists a great ignorance about these conditions. Most people do not realize the impact such conditions have on those afflicted and their families. Patients who have dysautonomia struggle with some of the most basic functions that healthy people take for granted, beginning with just getting out of bed in the morning. Each day and each moment brings new and unexpected obstacles. Determination, fortitude and tenacity are traits that are absolutely necessary for coping or obtaining any degree of recovery. Despite the betrayal of an uncooperative body, the most perseverant patients tend to face life with profound courage and incredible strength. Provided with a proper support system and responsible medical care, the majority of youth onset patients can go on to become productive participants in society and can lead full and successful lives.

Why haven’t I heard of dysautonomia?

Uncharted territory
History demonstrates that medical conditions become better understood with time, research, support and advocacy. DYNA’s patient population are “dysautonomia pioneers.” They are clearing the path for future patients. With time, research, support and advocacy dysautonomia will become better known. The DYNA organization is working very hard to promote accurate information, awareness, proper diagnosis, quality treatment and compassionate support for all dysautonomia patients.

Progress is being made
Modern physicians and researchers are learning more about dysautonomia conditions daily. They are advancing treatment options and protocol for the various forms of dysautonomia. Dysautonomia has always existed (see the below link for additional information) it was just not properly diagnosed, well known or understood.

The average person may have never heard of dysautonomia before, but rest assured that progress is being made in this field of medicine and word is getting out. With time and awareness, more and more people will start to understand the various forms of dysautonomia. Thanks to the efforts of the DYNA organization, our Youth Ambassadors, compassionate physicians and researchers, there is tremendous hope for the future of dysautonomia conditions.

What are the symptoms of dysautonomia?

  • tachycardia (fast heart rate)
  • bradycardia (slow heart rate)
  • orthostatic hypotension (low upright blood pressure)
  • orthostatic intolerance (inability to remain upright)
  • syncope and near syncope (fainting)
  • severe dizziness
  • excessive fatigue
  • exercise intolerance
  • migraines/headaches
  • gastrointestinal issues
  • nausea/diarrhea/constipation
  • insomnia
  • joint/muscle pain
  • joint hypermobility
  • muscle weakness
  • menstrual irregularities
  • shortness of breath
  • thermoregulatory issues
  • anxiety
  • low mood
  • tremulousness
  • frequent urination
  • cognitive impairment (brain fog)
  • visual blurring or tunneling
  • seizures/convulsions