What is Dysautonomia?
Dysautonomia, like Arthritis, is a broad term which describes a set of medical conditions of a malfunctioning Autonomic Nervous System which controls our involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate and digestion. The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is comprised of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems; the former and latter counterbalance each other wherein one stimulates the ANS and the other inhibits it. POTS, for example, is a form of Dysautonomia which impairs the sympathetic branch of the ANS. It increases the heart rate of at least 30 beats per minute within the first ten minutes of standing. Individuals with POTS have to plan their days and weeks in advance how they would spend their energy because it’s so limited.
Symptoms of Dysautonomia
Here is a general breakdown of POTS symptoms as outlined by A-1 Home Care:
- Extreme fatigue
- Headaches or migraines
- Light-headedness
- Heart palpitations
- Fainting
- Unstable blood pressure
- Malnutrition
- Indigestion
- Death (in extreme cases)
Many victims suffer from these symptoms, but when they go in for a medical check-up, they are told that nothing is wrong with them, so they continue to work or go to school until their physical health fails and they are forced to stay home. After they lose their job, that’s when they really need health insurance to pay for the doctor visits but unfortunately, they run out of resources to get the help they need. With no income or health insurance, these students or working adults end up depending on their parents or other family members for help at home.
If you have a loved one suffering from POTS, you can count on A-1 Home Care to do the basics for you such as light housekeeping, meal preparation, errands and chores. The fatigue can be quite extreme at times, but the house still needs to be cleaned and someone has to cook. Are you working full-time and too tired to cook for your loved ones? Or are you suffering from POTS and wish there were an extra pair of helping hands around the house? Don’t worry about the cost. A-1 Home Care has viable financing options that will work for your budget, and you will receive top-notch quality in-home care from highly skilled and experienced caregivers, certified nurse assistants and certified home health aides. Our care managers will assist you in coming up with a plan based on your level of needs, budget and preferences. A-1 Home Care also accepts Veteran Benefits and long-term care insurance for live-in care, respite care, short-term care, and long-term care.
