Some people may use the term "peripheral autonomic neuropathy" to refer to autonomic neuropathy. Autonomic neuropathy happens when there is damage to the nerves that control involuntary processes in the body, such as heart rate and digestion. The most common causes of autonomic neuropathy include diabetic neuropathy, amyloidosis, and autoimmune disorders.
What causes peripheral autonomic neuropathy?
Autonomic neuropathy occurs when something damages the nerves that control the internal organs and tissues. For example, autonomic neuropathy due to diabetes can happen as a result of high levels of blood glucose and fats damaging the nerves and small blood vessels that supply the nerves with oxygen and nourishment. Autoimmune disorders happen when the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells, which may affect the nerves. Amyloidosis occurs when the protein amyloid builds up in the body, and this may lead to autonomic neuropathy.
What are the signs and symptoms of peripheral autonomic neuropathy?
Symptoms of autonomic neuropathy will depend on which organs it affects. For example, a person may feel lightheaded or experience a rapid heart rate if there is damage to the nerves that control the heart and blood vessels. Constipation, diarrhea, or vomiting can occur if there is damage to the nerves of the digestive system. Other possible symptoms include bladder problems, increased sweating, vision changes, and problems with sex organs. Autonomic neuropathy can also affect a person's ability to feel symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This can make it more difficult to treat low blood sugar when necessary. A person should contact a doctor as soon as they have concerns about autonomic neuropathy or if they experience new or worsening symptoms. The doctor can recommend a suitable treatment plan, which may include addressing an underlying cause and specific symptoms.
What is the life expectancy of someone with peripheral autonomic neuropathy?
There is limited information about how autonomic neuropathy affects life expectancy. A person's outlook will usually depend on the underlying cause, as well as which nerves it affects. Some conditions are associated with reduced life expectancy, whereas others, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, resolve following the acute illness. Autonomic neuropathies that affect the heart can be associated with life threatening events such as arrhythmias and heart attacks. Other autonomic neuropathies may decrease the quality of life but do not usually affect life expectancy. A person's doctor can provide information about their outlook based on their individual circumstances.
