Why Your Body’s Autopilot Feels Broken: A Guide to Autonomic Neuropathy
If you’re experiencing a cluster of frustrating, seemingly unrelated symptoms—like dizziness when you stand, an erratic heart rate, or digestive issues—you might feel like your body’s “autopilot” has gone haywire. These are not in your head. For many, these are the confusing signs of autonomic neuropathy, a condition that affects your body’s involuntary nervous system.
About Stephen Dunn:
After more than two decades as a physical therapist and holistic healer here in Austin, I’ve seen how profoundly this condition can impact daily life. My mission is to help you not only understand what’s happening but also to show you that a comprehensive, healing path forward is possible.
Understanding the Autonomic Nervous System
Think of your autonomic nervous system as your body’s control center for everything you don’t have to think about: heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, body temperature, and even breathing. When this system is damaged, these crucial functions can go haywire, leading to a wide range of symptoms that can make you feel unwell, often without a clear cause.
The Symptoms: Your Body’s Warning Signs
The signs of autonomic neuropathy can be frustratingly diverse because they impact so many different bodily systems. Be on the lookout for:
- Orthostatic Hypotension: Lightheadedness or dizziness when you stand up too quickly, which is caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure.
- Irregular Heart Rate: A consistently high heart rate or a heart rate that doesn’t change appropriately with exercise.
- Digestive Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, often caused by the digestive tract moving too slowly or too quickly.
- Abnormal Sweating: You might sweat too little (leading to trouble regulating body temperature) or sweat excessively.
- Urinary and Sexual Dysfunction: Issues with bladder control or sexual function can also be signs.
If you’re experiencing any of these, it’s your body’s way of sending a signal that something is wrong.
What Causes Autonomic Neuropathy?
While autonomic neuropathy can sometimes develop on its own, it’s often a secondary condition. Some of the most common causes include:
- Diabetes: This is the most frequent cause, as high blood sugar can damage nerves throughout the body.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause the body to attack its own nerves.
- Other Conditions: Autonomic neuropathy can also be linked to alcoholism, certain medications, and genetic disorders.
A Holistic Path to Treatment in Austin
As a holistic healer, my approach goes beyond just treating the symptom. I believe in identifying the root cause and creating a personalized plan to heal the entire person—mind, body, and spirit.
My extensive experience since 2000 allows me to integrate a powerful blend of treatments, including Physical Therapy, Clinical Pilates, and manual therapy, to address autonomic neuropathy. We focus on improving blood flow, enhancing body awareness, and restoring the neural pathways. This is not just about managing symptoms; it’s about rebuilding your body’s ability to function properly.
For my clients in the Austin area, this means you can get your questions answered and find a real path forward, right here in your community. You don’t have to live with a body that feels out of your control.
Don’t Guess, Get Answers
If you’re tired of feeling confused and limited by your symptoms, the first crucial step is a proper diagnosis. Let’s work together to pinpoint the source of your discomfort and create a targeted plan for recovery.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and start your journey back to health and vitality.