Effective Management of Dysautonomia: A Patient's Journey to Wellness

Understanding Dysautonomia

Dysautonomia is a complex condition that affects the autonomic nervous system. This system controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. When it malfunctions, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that significantly impact daily life.

In this blog post, I will share the journey of a 27-year-old female patient diagnosed with Dysautonomia. Her experience highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to treatment and the potential for recovery.

Patient Presentation

A 27-year-old female presented to the clinic with several troubling symptoms. She experienced pre-syncope, dizziness, fatigue, tremors, shortness of breath, difficulty regulating temperature, exercise intolerance, tachycardia, and morning nausea. After thorough testing, including an EKG, Holter monitor, and Tilt Table testing, she received a diagnosis of Dysautonomia in August 2023. Her cardiologist prescribed Ondansetron for nausea and Midodrine to help maintain steady blood pressure. However, her primary goal was to discontinue all medications.

Examination and Diagnosis

During the physical examination, we observed several significant findings. There was a notable increase in heart rate—43 beats per minute—from lying to standing, which was maintained for one minute. Other findings included:

• A physiological tremor

• Decreased balance and stability

• Convergence excess

• Vertical nystagmus

• Hypometric saccades

• Decreased gain of smooth pursuits in all directions

• Abnormal pupillary light reflex

• Excessive sweating of extremities

  
  

Salivary cortisol testing revealed elevated cortisol levels throughout the day. These findings aligned with her diagnosis of Dysautonomia and indicated both neurological and endocrine components.

Comprehensive Treatment Approach

The treatment plan began with 12 visits over six weeks. The initial course of treatment included:

• Diaphragmatic breathing exercises

• Cranial nerve neuromodulation

• Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation

• Oculomotor exercises

• Vestibular rehabilitation

• Interactive metronome training

• Go/No-Go activities

• Eye-Hand activities

• Red/NIR light therapy

• Bemer pEMF therapy

  
  

In addition to these therapies, we recommended lifestyle modifications focusing on diet and circadian rhythm regulation. Supplementation was also introduced to help regulate cortisol levels.

After the initial treatment phase, a re-examination was conducted. The patient was then given a home exercise plan and continued treatment at a frequency of one visit per week for an additional eight visits.

Positive Results and Ongoing Improvements

After completing the initial treatment course, the patient reported a 50% overall subjective improvement in her symptoms. Notably, she experienced near-complete resolution of pre-syncope and significant reductions in tachycardia, fatigue, exercise intolerance, tremors, and shortness of breath. However, she continued to struggle with morning nausea.

During the second phase of treatment, we implemented additional dietary changes, which led to almost complete elimination of nausea. Collaborating with her cardiologist, the patient successfully discontinued her medications.

A follow-up examination revealed further improvements:

• Heart rate increase from lying to standing decreased to 20 beats per minute and fully recovered within one minute.

• Tremors were ameliorated.

• Balance and stability scores improved.

• Accuracy of saccades and gain of smooth pursuits showed significant enhancements.

• Convergence excess was eliminated.

• Appropriate sweat production returned in all extremities.

  
  

The Importance of Functional Neurological Rehabilitation

Functional neurological rehabilitation has proven effective in managing and treating Dysautonomia. An individualized plan of care and targeted treatment strategies are essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms related to dysautonomia, I encourage you to reach out. Together, we can explore holistic approaches to care that may help you find relief without relying solely on traditional interventions.

Please contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation.

In conclusion, the journey to recovery from Dysautonomia can be challenging, but with the right support and treatment, significant improvements are possible. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. We are here to help you every step of the way.

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