Disorders of the autonomic nervous system

Abstract

Clinical symptoms of autonomic dysfunction can arise from abnormalities of autonomic pathways within the central or peripheral nervous systems. Mild autonomic dysfunction can occur in otherwise normal persons with advancing age. More substantial autonomic symptoms arise when there is structural disruption of autonomic pathways or when they are involved in degenerative or metabolic conditions. One of the most disabling symptoms of autonomic dysfunction can be orthostatic hypotension, or a significant drop in blood pressure with assuming an upright posture. Other symptoms of autonomic dysfunction include impaired bladder control, erectile failure, and gastrointestinal dysfunction, manifesting as gastroparesis, constipation, and even diarrhea and occasional incontinence.