The Facts

• Autonomic neuropathy is a group of symptoms rather than a specific disease. Prognosis depends on the cause and on what organ is affected. In many cases, autonomic neuropathy is progressive and results in disability and, in some cases, death.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms vary, depending on what organs are affected. Symptoms include sweating abnormally, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, urinary abnormality and sexual dysfunction.
  
  

Causes

• Many diseases can cause this form of neuropathy. Diabetes can cause severe nerve damage throughout the body. Other causes include alcoholism, autoimmune illnesses, chronic illnesses such as AIDS, certain medication and trauma to nerves.
  
  

Prognosis

• If the cause can be found and treated, improvement is possible, although in some cases, symptoms may worsen even with treatment. Good glucose control can help to prevent autonomic neuropathy from worsening for a diabetic, while giving up drinking may halt the progression for an alcoholic.
  
  

Warning

• Autonomic neuropathy can become life-threatening. The nerve damage may progress to the point where breathing is impaired or the heart beats abnormally. If certain nerves are affected, you may have trouble eating or swallowing and should seek medical care immediately.