Introduction
A case study of a 35 year-old female presented with autonomic dysfunction. Her chief complaints were brain fog, dizziness, migraines, anxiety, gastrointestinal issues, sleep disturbances and neck pain.
Examination and Diagnosis
A neurological examination revealed mesencephalic dysfunction, orthostatic intolerance, low vitamin D levels and elevated cortisol levels throughout the day.
Treatment
The patient was initially treated 2x per week for 60 minutes over 6 consecutive weeks then a re-examination on the final visit. Visits included tilt table therapy, orthostatic retraining, BEMER therapy, neuromodulation to the hypoglossal and trigeminal nerves, electric muscle stimulation, diaphragmatic breathing exercises, chiropractic manipulative therapy and red/ NIR light therapy.
While undergoing treatment, the patient began an at-home regimen of individualized supplementation to address vitamin D and cortisol levels.
Results
During the initial examination, the patient’s seated HR averaged 100 bpm bilaterally and her orthostatic HR increased from 96bpm to 124bpm upon standing and remained elevated above 90bpm. After treatment, the patient’s seated HR averaged 78bpm bilaterally and her orthostatic HR began at 73bpm and increased to 96bpm.
The patient went from experiencing dizziness everyday to having no report of dizziness. She does not experience any tachycardia or bounding heart rate anymore when she stands up or walks; she is able to begin physical activity again. She is no longer experiencing brain fog, chronic diarrhea or waking up in the middle of the night with tachycardia or in a panic.
After the treatment plan was completed, the patient continued a maintenance plan of supplementation and additional treatments consisting of 60 minute sessions 1x per week for four weeks to improve memory, cognitive function and to monitor progress with autonomic function.
Conclusion
Functional neurological careFunctional neurological care has been shown to be effective in the treatment of autonomic dysfunction. Please visit our Dysautonomia Program webpage for more information.