Dysautonomia

Dysautonomia includes a variety of disorders that interfere with the functioning of the autonomic nervous system. These disorders include postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) , neurocardiogenic syncope, mitral valve prolapse dysautonomia, pure autonomic failure, and multiple system atrophy (Shy-Drager syndrome). We are developing separate pages for some forms of dysautonomia.

American Autonomic Society: The home page of a professional society established “to bring together individuals from diverse disciplines who share an interest in the structure and function of the autonomic nervous system and in the pathology, treatment, and prevention of its disorders.” The site provides information about the society, including a list of physician members and their specialties.

Dysautonomia (or autonomic dysfunction): This authoritative fact sheet from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke discusses what dysautonomia is, treatment, prognosis, research, and resources information.

Dysautonomia, Familial: Research and genetic information from the OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) database.
Familial Dysautonomia (FD): Based at the New York University School of Medicine, this site provides an overview of clinical symptoms, diagnosis, prevalence and transmission, prevention and treatment, services, resources, and a bibliography.

fdvillage.org: Geared for primarily for parents of children with familial dysautonomia (FD), this well-organized and easy-to-use site includes a variety of broad topics – Research, Finance & Insurance, Medical Issues, Travel, Vacations, Dreams, Library, Spiritual Center – each of which is further subdivided. According to the site information, “FD Village is the product of collaboration of many individuals who have been touched by FD: parents, professionals and patients. Many of the articles were written by professionals who have experience with FD.”

National Dysautonomia Research Foundation (NDRF): The foundation’s web site explains what dysautonomia is and what the organization does. There is an excellent list of frequently asked questions (FAQs), a medical referral network, information about autonomic disorders, newsletters, a research protocol database, and links. Note: This site is sponsored by a pharmaceutical corporation; visitors should evaluate related information accordingly.

Vanderbilt Autonomic Dysfunction Center: The home page of an “international center for patient care, research, and training focusing exclusively on disorders of the autonomic nervous system,” this web site offers information about different aspects of autonomic disorders and the Center’s services; unfortunately, much of the site is still “under construction.”

Related Subjects: Guillain-Barré Syndrome; Mitral Valve Prolapse; Neurological Disorders; Rare Disorders; Specific Disorders; Resources in your state