Autonomic dysfunction in man

ABSTRACT

The autonomic nervous system [sympathetic and parasympathetic] is the nonvoluntary nervous system that controls and maintains normal function of the internal organs, e. g., the cardiovascular system, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, sex organs, and others. Although the autonomic nervous system functions normally in most people throughout their entire life, serious autonomic dysfunction is not uncommon. An important consequence of autonomic failure is the development of postural hypotension, in which patients are unable to maintain their normal blood pressure and cardiac output on standing. This results in an inadequate blood supply to critically important organs such as the brain. Postural hypotension may be so severe that it becomes impossible for these patients to stand or even sit without losing consciousness