Autonomic dysfunction in multiple sclerosis.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most frequent chronic neurological disease affecting young persons in developed countries. MS is, however, considered as a secondary cause, of central origin, for autonomic dysfunction. The most common autonomic symptoms in MS are disorders of micturation, impotence, sudomotor and gastrointestinal disturbances, orthostatic intolerance as well as sleep disorders. The majority of the patients suffer at some period of the disease from lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual dysfunction. Awareness and treatment of these conditions is vital to improving health and quality of life in patients with MS. The increased understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms in autonomic dysfunction in MS, along with technological and pharmaceutical developments has advanced our ability to treat the multiple aspects complicating autonomic failure in MS.
Haensch
Carl-Albrecht
CA
Dept. of Neurology, HELIOS Klinikum Wuppertal, Heusnerstr. 40, 42283, Wuppertal, Germany. chaensch@wuppertal.helios-kliniken.de
Jörg
Johannes
J
D020211:Autonomic Dysreflexia / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D001342:Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007024:Hypotension, Orthostatic / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D020018:Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D012893:Sleep Wake Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D013543:Sweat Gland Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D001745:Urinary Bladder Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology