As a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, it is becoming increasingly common to come across people who are struggling with unexplained symptoms. These symptoms may not fit into any particular medical diagnosis and any testing carried out may also not help lead to any diagnosis. It can be so difficult for those who experience this – they see the doctor, have tests carried out, but no diagnosis can be made. Unfortunately, people in this situation are left not knowing what to do and who to turn to for help! As I work using a Functional Medicine approach, the lack of a “label” is not really an issue – I work with people not labels!
One potential culprit behind someone’s health struggles is dysautonomia.
What is Dysautonomia?
A part of our nervous system is known as the Autonomic nervous system (ANS). This is the part which is responsible for regulating essential functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, temperature control – these all happen without our conscious control.
There are two parts of the ANS known as the sympathetic (fight, flight or freeze) and the parasympathetic (rest and digest). When all is well, these systems work together in balance and respond to different situations within the body and in response to external environment.
Dysautonomia is where these automatic processes become impaired. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms such as dizziness, faster heart rate, low blood pressure, fatigue, brain fog, temperature regulation problems, digestive problems, sleep disturbances.
Dysautonomia, ADHD, autism and other conditions
Although dysautonomia is not a main symptom of ADHD and autism, there is some evidence showing a higher occurrence of ADHD and autism in those with dysautonomia. The exact reasons behind these connections are not currently clear although genetic elements and involvement of the nervous system are common factors.
Dysautonomia is also associated with other conditions such as:
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/ME
- Fibromyalgia
- Long Covid
Functional Medicine Approach
This would involve:
- a thorough assessment of medical history, symptoms, lifestyle factors – aiming to identify any triggers and underlying causes. Functional testing would be recommended where appropriate.
- a personalised nutritional plan would aim to identify and correct nutritional deficiencies, focus on nutrient-dense foods and support overall body function. Anti-inflammatory foods and those that support the nervous system would be a focus.
- gut health support using foods and targeted supplementation as a healthy gut will have a positive effect on the nervous system.
- Collaboration with other health practitioners. Dysautonomia often requires a multi-disciplinary approach involving physical therapies, medical and psychological support.
Dysautonomia can be very complex and have a huge impact on quality of life. By having an overview of all body systems, optimising nutrition and supporting overall wellness, nutritional therapy and functional medicine practitioners can help people to regain control of their health and find relief from their symptoms.