What does dysautonomia indicate about the autonomic nervous system?

Dysautonomia refers to a condition where there is an imbalance or dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, which encompasses both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The autonomic nervous system is responsible for regulating involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and respiratory rate.

In dysautonomia, the normal functioning of these autonomic processes becomes disrupted, leading to various symptoms that can include lightheadedness, abnormal heart rates, and gastrointestinal issues. The core aspect of dysautonomia is this abnormal equilibrium between the sympathetic division, which often prepares the body for “fight or flight” responses, and the parasympathetic division, which promotes a “rest and digest” state.

Understanding dysautonomia in this context highlights its significance in how these two components of the autonomic nervous system should interact to maintain homeostasis in the body. Thus, the correct assessment of dysautonomia is its representation of an abnormal balance between these two divisions.