One part of your body’s nervous system is known as the autonomic nervous system, or ANS. This system helps control your heart rate, breathing, sleeping, and digestion. The ANS can be broken down further into two other systems: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system.

• The sympathetic nervous system involves the body’s fight or flight response.

• The parasympathetic nervous system helps with rest and digestion.

With Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, there is an imbalance in the sympathetic nervous system, known as dysautonomia, which causes issues with blood pressure, blood volume, and brain signals. Dysautonomia results from poor blood volume to the brain, poor heart pumping, and dehydration.

Symptoms of Dysautonomia

GI Tract

• Dry mouth

• Stomach pain

• Constipation

• Nausea

• Reduced food intake

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Bloating

Cardiac

• Racing of the heart

• Drop in blood pressure or sudden increase in blood pressure

• Dizziness with standing

• Fainting

Sleep

• Problems falling asleep

• Issues staying asleep

How do I manage my dysautonomia?

Increasing blood flow to the brain helps reduce symptoms. Some ways to do this are below:

Fluid

Patients with EDS do not typically feel thirsty. This can lead to low blood volume.

• For the best results, drink 80-90 ounces of water and/or sports drink per day.

• Keep a paper log of the amount of water you drink each day.

• To help your kidneys retain fluid, add 1-2 teaspoons of salt per day.

Exercise

Low impact exercise can help with your symptoms.

• Swimming and riding a recumbent bike are good ways to exercise.

• You will get the best results if you exercise 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week.

• Work with a Physical and Occupational Therapist as needed.

For questions or more information on how to manage your symptoms, schedule an appointment