Treatment options for autonomic neuropathies.

Autonomic disorders may present in a varied fashion. Symptoms that may require treatment include orthostatic intolerance, gastrointestinal distress, sudomotor abnormalities, and urologic and sexual dysfunction. Realistic treatment goals should be outlined for patients, with the expectations that symptoms can be improved, but that the disease is unlikely to be cured and long-term therapy may be required. Orthostatic intolerance is usually treated by a combination of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies. Nonpharmacologic therapies include compression stockings, adequate fluid and salt intake, and lifestyle modifications. Polypharmacologic therapy is often the standard and can include a volume-expanding agent (such as fludrocortisone) and a sympathomimetic agent. This combination will improve symptoms dramatically in most patients. Treatment of gastrointestinal disorders should address the particular symptom involved: gastroparesis, constipation, or diarrhea. Treatment of sexual and urogenital dysfunction often requires a combination of pharmacologic intervention and lifestyle modifications for peak effectiveness. Patient education is the cornerstone of treatment in any of the autonomic disorders. Given enough education and motivation, many patients will be able to participate in their treatment, which will provide a feeling of empowerment and control over a disease that is often frustratingly resistant to treatment.