Dysautonomia: an Explanation for the Medically Unexplained?
  • Senthil Chandrasekaram
    Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes,King’s Mill Hospital, Sherwood Forest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton-in-Ashfield
  • Ranga H Fernando
    University of Manchester, Manchester
  • Vikram Aaarella
    Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes,King’s Mill Hospital, Sherwood Forest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton-in-Ashfield
  • Emily T Mudenha
    Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes,King’s Mill Hospital, Sherwood Forest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton-in-Ashfield
  • Devaka J Fernando
    Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes,King’s Mill Hospital, Sherwood Forest Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton-in-Ashfield

Keywords

Dysautonomia, medically unexplained symptoms, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)

Abstract

Objective: To identify dysautonomia as a collection of conditions with variable presentation that may be mistaken for medically unexplained symptoms.

Methods: Case series.

Results: Tilt table testing and 24 h electrocardiographic monitoring provided useful diagnostic tools to confirm the diagnosis.

Conclusion: A greater awareness and recognition of the disorders that result from dysautonomia and recognition of the disability that results from these disorders will improve patients’ quality of life.

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References

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  • Stone L. Blame, shame and hopelessness: medically unexplained symptoms and the 'heartsink' experience. Aust Fam Physician 2014;43:191–195.
  • McInnis OA, Matheson K, Anisman H. Living with the unexplained: coping, distress, and depression among women with chronic fatigue syndrome and/or fibromyalgia compared to an autoimmune disorder. Anxiety Stress Coping 2014;27:601–618.
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    Published: 2016-07-27
    Issue: Vol. 3 No. 5 (view)

    How to cite:
    1.
    Chandrasekaram S, Fernando RH, Aaarella V, Mudenha ET, Fernando DJ. Dysautonomia: an Explanation for the Medically Unexplained?. EJCRIM 2016;3 doi:10.12890/2016_000430.