10 Dysautonomia Symptoms
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
Symptom #4: Diarrhea or Constipation
The autonomic nervous system controls many involuntary bodily functions, including bowel movements (peristalsis) and certain aspects of digestion. Peristalsis refers to the wave-like muscle contractions in our digestive system that move ingested food along the gastrointestinal tract.
The dysfunction of this autonomic control, therefore, interferes with the process of digestion, absorption of nutrients, and removal of waste. Decreased bowel movements lead to constipation due to excess reabsorption of water from the bowel contents. On the other hand, erratic and increased contractions of the muscles of the intestines and sphincter relaxation can cause diarrhea.
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