Clinical manifestations of diabetic autonomic neuropathy

Clinical Manifestations of Diabetic Autonomic Neuropathy
Session Overview
Description
This session examines the symptoms of diabetic autonomic neuropathy.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• List the symptoms of diabetic autonomic neuropathy

Diabetic autonomic neuropathy is a dysfunction of parasympathetic and sympathetic nerve fibres (the autonomic nervous system) as a result of diabetes. The damage to the autonomic nerves affects the function of areas linked to the injured nerve.

The onset is usually insidious. The damage tends to be progressive and multiple organs and systems can be affected. It remains mostly a diagnosis of exclusion. Screening is recommended for cardiovascular presentation.

Early diagnosis and treatment measures improve the odds of better symptom control and prognosis. Although it is a relatively common complication of diabetes, it remains poorly understood and the treatment options are limited. Prevention, that is to say, close control of glucose levels, is paramount.