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Contents
  • Cardiovascular Symptoms
  • Gastrointestinal and Genitourinary Symptoms
  • Sudomotor and Vasomotor Symptoms

Spotting the Symptoms of Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy

Spotting the Symptoms of Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy

Why It Matters

Recognizing the symptoms of diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN) can lead to early intervention and better management. Learn what to watch for.
Contents
  • Cardiovascular Symptoms
  • Gastrointestinal and Genitourinary Symptoms
  • Sudomotor and Vasomotor Symptoms

Cardiovascular Symptoms

DAN can affect the heart, leading to symptoms like resting tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension. Resting tachycardia is characterized by a consistently high heart rate, while orthostatic hypotension involves dizziness or fainting when standing up. These symptoms can increase the risk of more serious heart issues.

Gastrointestinal and Genitourinary Symptoms

Gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, nausea, and diarrhea are common in DAN. Genitourinary symptoms include bladder dysfunction and sexual issues, like erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and well-being.
Diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN) is a serious complication of diabetes affecting the autonomic nerves. It can lead to cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary symptoms, impacting heart rate, digestion, and bladder function.

Sudomotor and Vasomotor Symptoms

DAN can also lead to changes in sweating and skin texture. Sudomotor symptoms include excessive sweating in some areas and lack of sweat in others, while vasomotor symptoms can cause skin to become dry and cracked. These changes can affect comfort and skin health.

FAQs

What heart symptoms indicate DAN?

Resting tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension are key indicators.

Can DAN affect digestion?

Yes, symptoms like bloating and diarrhea are common.

What are sudomotor symptoms?

They include abnormal sweating patterns and skin changes.

Does DAN affect sexual health?

Yes, it can cause erectile dysfunction and vaginal dryness.

Key Takeaways

Recognizing symptoms early can lead to better management of diabetic autonomic neuropathy.
Identify and manage your symptoms with the help of Doctronic.
Additional References
  1. Vinik AI, Maser RE, Mitchell BD, Freeman R. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy. Diabetes Care 2003; 26:1553.
  2. Freeman R. Diabetic autonomic neuropathy. Handb Clin Neurol 2014; 126:63.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.