Autonomic Nervous System Disorders and Sleep Impact

Q: Autonomic Nervous System Disorders and Sleep Impact

Hello Wendy： Your situation indeed resembles the symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. <br>Some individuals may experience similar symptoms after contracting COVID-19, and the duration can vary, with some lasting for several months. <br>It seems that you are making ef

Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation

Hello, Doctor.
A few months ago, I was diagnosed with severe tinnitus, and sometimes I can hear my heartbeat in my ears.
There are also times when I feel extremely fatigued by the evening, needing to take deep breaths as if I can't catch my breath.
At certain moments, I feel very tired but when lying in bed, I experience a sense of heightened alertness that is uncomfortable; I want to sleep but can't.
Over time, the frequency of these symptoms has decreased, but I haven't returned to my previous state.
Recently, I have been seriously addressing this issue.
For the past ten days, I have tried to go to bed early, supplemented with some calcium and B vitamins, practiced abdominal breathing before sleep, and started exercising, which has led to the disappearance of these symptoms.
However, this morning, I was woken up by my one-year-old son after only five hours of sleep.
I wanted to take a nap while he was asleep, but I couldn't fall asleep at all.
Today, due to lack of sleep, I feel something is off in my body, and it seems like the symptoms might return.
I have actually seen a psychiatrist, and the doctor listened to my heartbeat and mentioned that I might have autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
However, since the medication can cause some drowsiness, I told the doctor I wanted to try adjusting on my own first.

My question is, if I have autonomic nervous system dysregulation, could just one day of poor sleep trigger discomfort again? Or is it normal that after only ten days of adjustment, a single night of poor sleep could lead to discomfort? Should I continue exercising and focus on good sleep and relaxation, and perhaps it might take several months to improve my mental and physical state? If after a while I still feel it's not enough, would trying medication be a better option? Please help me, thank you.

Wendy T, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/28

Dr. Lin Mianzhang reply Psychiatry

Hello Wendy: Your situation indeed resembles the symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
Some individuals may experience similar symptoms after contracting COVID-19, and the duration can vary, with some lasting for several months.
It seems that you are making efforts to improve this issue, and you have seen some results.
However, since sleep quality can also affect the state of the autonomic nervous system, insufficient sleep may cause the symptoms of autonomic dysfunction to reappear.
As long as you continue to engage in activities such as exercise, diaphragmatic breathing, relaxation techniques, and ensuring adequate sleep, your symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction can improve.
Of course, if these efforts do not completely alleviate the symptoms, medication is also an option to consider.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2023/09/28

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you've been going through a challenging time with your health, particularly concerning your autonomic nervous system (ANS) and sleep issues. The symptoms you've described, such as tinnitus, feelings of fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and the sensation of being overly stimulated at night, can indeed be associated with autonomic nervous system disorders.

The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and digestion. It consists of two main branches: the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for 'fight or flight' responses, and the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes 'rest and digest' activities. An imbalance between these two systems can lead to various symptoms, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort.

Your experience of feeling extremely fatigued during the day but unable to sleep at night is not uncommon in individuals with ANS dysregulation. This can be exacerbated by stress, lifestyle factors, and even dietary choices. The fact that you've started to implement positive changes, such as going to bed earlier, practicing abdominal breathing, and beginning an exercise routine, is commendable and can significantly impact your overall well-being.

Regarding your question about whether a single night of poor sleep can trigger a return of symptoms, the answer is yes. The autonomic nervous system can be quite sensitive to changes in sleep patterns. Sleep is crucial for the body to recover, regulate hormones, and maintain a balanced nervous system. If you experience a night of inadequate sleep, it can lead to a resurgence of symptoms, especially if you are already predisposed to ANS dysregulation.

It's also important to note that while you've made significant progress in just ten days, the journey to fully recalibrating your autonomic nervous system may take longer. Consistency is key. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, engaging in regular physical activity, and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve your symptoms over time. However, if you find that your symptoms persist or worsen despite these efforts, it may be beneficial to consider medication or other therapeutic interventions.

In terms of medication, it’s essential to have a conversation with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the benefits and potential side effects of medications that may assist in managing your symptoms. Sometimes, a short course of medication can provide the necessary support while you continue to work on lifestyle changes.

In summary, while it is normal to experience fluctuations in symptoms, especially with sleep disturbances, your proactive approach to managing your health is commendable. Continue with your positive lifestyle changes, and if you feel that your symptoms are not improving or are becoming overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health is a priority, and finding the right balance may take time, but it is achievable. Best wishes on your journey to better health!

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