Autonomic neuropathy (also called visceral neuropathy) is a disease of the non-voluntary, non-sensory nervous system (i.e. the Autonomic Nervous System) affecting mostly the internal organs such as the bladder muscles, the cardiovascular system, the digestive tract, and the genital organs. These nerves are not under a person's conscious control and function automatically. They do not run through the spinal cord.

Most commonly autonomic neuropathy is seen in persons with long-standing diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2.

Common symptoms and signs (in combination or alone)

• urinary bladder
  • bladder incontinence or urine retention
• gastrointestinal tract
  • dysphagia
  • abdominal pain
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • malabsorption
  • fecal incontinence
  • gastroparesis
  • diarrhea
  • constipation
• cardiovascular system
  • disturbances of heart rate (tachycardia and/or bradycardia)
  • orthostatic hypotension
  • inadequate increase of heart rate on exertion
• other
  • erectile impotence
  • hypoglycemia unawareness

Notable sufferers of Autonomic neuropathy syndome

• Johnny Cash

See also

• neuropathy

Autonomic nervous system | Neurological disorders