An "ANS disorder" refers to a disorder of the autonomic nervous system.
Understanding Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Disorders
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and body temperature. When this system malfunctions, it leads to a wide range of symptoms and conditions.
Causes and Types of ANS Disorders
According to the provided reference, autonomic nervous system disorders can arise in several ways:
- Primary Disorders: They can occur on their own, without a clear underlying cause.
- Secondary Disorders: They can result from other diseases, such as:
- Parkinson's disease
- Alcoholism
- Diabetes
Furthermore, problems can affect specific parts of the ANS (like in complex regional pain syndromes) or the entire system.
Duration and Progression
The duration and severity of ANS disorders vary:
- Some are temporary.
- Many worsen over time.
Examples of Conditions Related to ANS Disorders
While the reference doesn't provide an exhaustive list, it mentions a few examples:
- Complex regional pain syndromes, which affect specific parts of the system.
- Disorders resulting from Parkinson's disease, alcoholism, and diabetes, which can have a broader impact on the ANS.
In summary, an ANS disorder represents a malfunction in the autonomic nervous system, impacting involuntary bodily functions. These disorders can be primary or secondary to other diseases and can vary in duration and severity.
