Diagnosis of VSD - what it is, symptoms, treatment. VSD and psychology. Treatment of VSD, patient reviews

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Vegetovascular dystonia(VSD) is a symptom complex consisting of various and very heterogeneous manifestations on the part of any organs and systems caused by impaired functioning of the autonomic nervous system.

General characteristics and essence of vegetative-vascular dystonia

The term "dystonia" reflects an imbalance between the regulatory mechanisms of the parasympathetic and sympathetic parts of the autonomic nervous system. Since the sympathetic and parasympathetic sections of the autonomic nervous system are responsible for maintaining the constancy of the internal environment of the body, that is, for the normal functioning of all organs and systems, reducing or increasing the heartbeat, the number breathing movements, urination, defecation and regulate other numerous functions in accordance with the needs of the current moment, then an imbalance in their work causes heterogeneous symptoms that imitate various pathologies.

In fact, the symptoms vegetative-vascular dystonia is associated with a violation of regulatory functions and coordinated interaction between two parts of the autonomic nervous system, and not with the pathology of any internal organ. This means that a person has subjective complaints about dysfunction of various organs, which imitate a disease, but in fact there is no pathology, since clinical symptoms associated with an imbalance of the nervous system.

Thus, the receptors of the autonomic nervous system, located in all internal organs and tissues of the body, constantly record the values ​​of blood pressure, heart rate, heat transfer, the width of the airways, the activity of the digestive organs, the rate of formation and excretion of urine, etc. In addition, the autonomic nervous system regulates the production of adrenaline and insulin.

Receptors record the current parameters of the functioning of organs and systems and transmit them to the spinal cord, at the level of which automated processing is carried out. After processing, the spinal cord adjusts the operating parameters of the organ or system so that it is optimal at the current time, and sends the appropriate signal to the receptors located in the tissues. Every second, billions of signals from various organs and tissues are processed in the spinal cord and the necessary commands are sent to correct the functioning of the organ or system. The autonomic nervous system can be compared to an autonomous electronic control system of a complex machine or process, which analyzes operating parameters every second and issues the necessary programmed commands.

To illustrate the work of the autonomic nervous system, consider a simple example. The person ate, as a result of which a certain amount of food ended up in the stomach. The stomach receptors reacted to its appearance and sent a corresponding signal to the spinal cord, which analyzed it and gave the command to produce gastric juice to digest the incoming nutrients.

That is, the autonomic nervous system ensures the normal and coordinated functioning of internal organs by implementing reflexes and action options programmed at the level of the spinal cord. Thanks to the existence of the autonomic nervous system, a person does not need to think that after eating he should turn on the production of gastric juice, and during physical activity, increase the heart rate, dilate the bronchi and breathe more often, etc. It is the autonomic nervous system that ensures our comfortable existence without constant thoughts about what blood pressure needs to be set at a given moment, how much to expand the bronchi, how much gastric juice to throw out, at what speed to move the food bolus through the intestines, at what angle to place the foot, on what angle turn hand, etc.

The programmed course of physiological processes allows a person to think, engage in creativity, study the world and perform other actions without paying attention to vital processes. Thus, the importance of the autonomic nervous system cannot be underestimated. It is quite clear that any disruption or failure in its work will entail an imbalance and improper functioning of various internal organs and systems, which will be accompanied by a variety of clinical symptoms. For example, an increase in blood pressure with vegetative-vascular dystonia is not a symptom of hypertension, but reflects an imbalance of the autonomic nervous system. Vegetative-vascular dystonia can develop with various somatic, mental or nervous diseases.

Thus, vegetative-vascular dystonia is not an independent disease, but a complex syndrome that is part of the total clinical picture various psycho-emotional, somatic, neurological or mental diseases. That is why, if a person is suspected of having vegetative-vascular dystonia, a comprehensive examination is necessary, which will reveal not only syndromic manifestations, but also the underlying disease that caused their appearance. At the same time, the doctor must assess the severity of autonomic disorders.

Course of vegetative-vascular dystonia

The autonomic nervous system is divided into two divisions - sympathetic and parasympathetic. Normally, both systems balance each other, since the sympathetic increases the tone of blood vessels, activates nervous and muscular work, but inhibits digestion and urination, while the parasympathetic, on the contrary, reduces performance, attention and memory, reduces vascular tone, etc. Conventionally, we can say that the sympathetic nervous system has an activating effect on the body, which is necessary for successfully overcoming a stressful situation. On the contrary, the parasympathetic autonomic nervous system has an inhibitory effect on the body functions necessary to overcome stress. Normally, both systems balance each other, restraining the excessive influence of each. With vegetative-vascular dystonia, the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems is disturbed, which can manifest itself as polymorphic symptoms from various organs and systems.

Manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia can be constant or periodic. With constant manifestations, a person is bothered by certain clinical symptoms every day, but its intensity does not increase or decrease, which reflects precisely the neurological nature of the disorders, which is not characteristic of a somatic disease that tends to progress or, on the contrary, regress. Periodic manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia are the so-called vegetative crises, which, depending on the predominant component clinical symptoms can be of a completely different nature, for example, panic attack, fainting, attacks of high blood pressure, etc.

The main component of the pathogenesis of vegetative-vascular dystonia, which determines the characteristics of the course of the syndrome, is a violation of the tone of blood vessels in all organs and systems. It is precisely because of the huge role of vascular tone in the development of pathology that it received the name “vegetative-vascular dystonia”. Violation of blood vessel tone develops due to an imbalance in the regulatory functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic parts of the autonomic nervous system. After all, the sympathetic nervous system constricts blood vessels, and the parasympathetic, on the contrary, dilates them. An imbalance between the influences of sympathetic and parasympathetic leads to unstable vascular tone, which causes surges in blood pressure and other manifestations.

In modern clinical practice, there are three variants of VSD:
1. VSD of constitutional nature;
2. VSD during periods of hormonal changes;
3. VSD due to organic lesions of the central nervous system.

VSD of constitutional nature (in children)

VSD of a constitutional nature is VSD in children, since the syndrome manifests itself in early age and is characterized by instability of the normal parameters of the functioning of the body. The child's skin color often changes, he is bothered by sweating, pain and organ dyskinesia digestive tract, he is prone to causeless episodes of increased body temperature, cannot tolerate physical and mental stress, and also reacts sharply to changes in the weather (meteosensitive). Very often, constitutional variants of VSD are hereditary.

VSD during periods of hormonal changes

VSD during periods of hormonal changes in the body often develop in adolescents due to insufficient functions of the autonomic nervous system, which simply does not keep up with the rapid growth of the child’s organs and systems. Manifestations of this variant of VSD are similar to those in the constitutional form.

VSD in organic lesions of the central nervous system

VSD with organic lesions of the central nervous system develops when the structure of deep parts of the brain, such as the brain stem, hypothalamus, limbic system, etc., is disrupted. Depending on which part of the brain is affected, a person may experience certain symptoms. For example, when the medulla oblongata is damaged, a person is bothered by periodic crises that occur in the form of dizziness, headache and fainting. When the hypothalamus is damaged, a person is bothered by disturbances in the feelings of hunger, satiety, thirst, sexual desire, desire to sleep, etc. When the limbic system is damaged, a person suffers from epilepsy. It is important to understand that VSD against the background of organic damage to the central nervous system is not identical to the manifestations of neuroinfections (for example, tick-borne encephalitis), traumatic brain injury, psychological trauma, etc. With VSD, there is only an imbalance in the regulatory activity of the autonomic nervous system and there are no endocrine characteristics characteristic of injuries and infections of the central nervous system - metabolic and metabolic disorders, as well as sleep and wakefulness disorders.

Types of VSD

With VSD, in the picture of clinical symptoms, subjective sensations prevail over objective data. This means that there are no morphological changes in organs characteristic of various diseases, but symptoms from the cardiovascular, nervous, endocrine, digestive and respiratory systems are present. This means that a person only has functional disorders associated with dysregulation of parts of the nervous system and accompanied by clinical symptoms. Symptoms are most pronounced during crises.

All symptoms characteristic of VSD can be combined into the following large groups:
1. Weakness, fatigue, lethargy, especially severe in the morning;
2. Unpleasant sensations or pain in the heart area;
3. A feeling of lack of air and associated deep breaths;
4. Anxiety, sleep disturbances, restlessness, irritability, concentration on one’s illness;
5. Headaches and dizziness;
6. Excessive sweating;
7. Instability of pressure and vascular tone.

All of the above symptoms are largely due to vascular tone. Therefore, depending on which vascular tone predominates in a given person, the following types of VSD are distinguished:

• Hypertensive type;
• Hypotensive type;
• Mixed type;
• Cardialgic type.

VSD of the hypertensive type

VSD of the hypertensive type is characterized by excessive vascular tone and increased blood pressure of more than 140/90 mmHg. In this case, a person is bothered by headaches, palpitations, fatigue and a feeling of heat. On chest In the area of ​​the heart, the skin becomes very sensitive. If VSD of the hypertensive type is not controlled, then it can develop into hypertension. Characterized by the appearance of numerous signs vascular disorders, such as redness of the face and neck, “marbled” skin coloring, cold hands and feet, etc. In addition, VSD of the hypertensive type is characterized by episodes of sudden, causeless fluctuations in body temperature, when it rises and falls. Excessive sweating may occur in some areas of the body.

VSD of hypotonic type

In this case, the person's symptoms predominate vascular insufficiency, since vascular tone is significantly reduced. Blood pressure decreases to less than 100/60 mm Hg. Art., as a result of which a person is worried about weakness, fatigue, dizziness and fainting when moving from horizontal to vertical position. Fainting is usually preceded by dizziness, weakness, darkening or fog in the eyes. Sharp jumps in blood pressure are also characteristic. Characterized by the appearance of numerous signs of vascular disorders, such as redness or cyanosis of the face and neck, “marbled” coloring of the skin, cold hands and feet, etc. In addition, a person may be bothered by an increase or decrease in temperature without apparent reason and excessive sweating.

VSD of mixed type

VSD of the mixed type occurs against the background of unstable vascular tone, which alternately increases or decreases. That is why the leading symptom of mixed type VSD is surges in blood pressure. Otherwise, a person may be bothered by symptoms of both hypertonic and hypotonic VSD.

VSD of cardiac type

VSD of the cardiac type is diagnosed if a person is mainly bothered by pain in the heart of various types, severity and localization. The pain can be sharp, stabbing and burning, imprecisely localized, as if blurred throughout the heart. Often a person experiences a feeling of irregular heartbeat. Against the background of the rather strong subjective severity of such symptoms, there is no objective data to suspect heart pathology. Symptoms usually appear during periods of stress and hormonal changes in the body (pregnancy, adolescence, menopause, etc.). Subjective sensations and complaints can periodically disappear and then reappear, and their characteristic feature is the absence of progression, and therefore the person’s general condition does not worsen.

Causes of VSD

Currently causes of VSD have not been established, since the disorder can be formed under the influence of various factors. Because of this, doctors and scientists identify risk factors in the presence of which the likelihood of developing VSD becomes maximum. Risk factors for VSD include the following:

• Features of the human constitution (VSD is hereditary and manifests itself from early childhood);
• Emotional, mental or physical overload at any age;
• Sleep disturbance;
• A sharp change in the usual environmental parameters, for example, moving to a different climate or time zone, a radical change in the type of work, etc.;
• Operational disruptions endocrine system(for example, diabetes mellitus, thyrotoxicosis, hypothyroidism, pheochromocytoma);
• Disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system;
• Sexual disorders;
• Disruption of the normal functioning of the spine (cervical osteochondrosis or subluxation of the first cervical vertebra);
• Chronic or very powerful one-time stress;
• Neurosis;
• The period of hormonal changes in the body (for example, adolescence, pregnancy, menopause, etc.);
• Excessive alcohol consumption;
• Severe chronic infections;
• Consequences traumatic injuries various organs;
• Consequences of severe infections;
• Allergic diseases;
• Chronic somatic diseases (for example, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, gastric ulcer, bronchial asthma, pancreatitis, colitis, etc.);
• Age-related changes in the functioning of the endocrine system.

VSD - symptoms and signs

The clinical manifestations of VSD are polymorphic, and therefore the entire complex of heterogeneous and varied symptoms is combined into the following syndromes:
1. Syndrome of gastrointestinal disorders;
2. Syndrome of cardiovascular disorders;
3. Respiratory distress syndrome;
4. Disorders of genitourinary functions;
5. Thermoregulation disorders;
6. Sweating disorders;
7. Musculo-articular disorders;
8. Salivation disorders;
9. Lacrimation disorders;
10. Emotional disturbances.

Cardiovascular syndrome

The syndrome of cardiovascular disorders in VSD is characterized by the presence of various subjective sensations that arise against the background of impaired functioning of the heart and blood vessels. Thus, quite often there is a presence of pain in the heart, which is aching, stabbing, burning, pressing, squeezing, pulsating or sipping in nature. In addition to pain, a person may simply complain of a feeling of discomfort in the area of ​​the nipple of the left breast. Pain and discomfort are poorly localized and do not have a clear boundary. The pain can spread to the left arm, shoulder, hypochondrium, under the shoulder blade, under the armpit, in the lower back or to the right side of the chest. With VSD, the pain never radiates to the jaw and teeth.

Pain in the heart area is in no way related to physical activity, does not decrease when taking nitroglycerin, and lasts for varying periods of time. Taking Validol or sedatives (for example, tincture of valerian, motherwort, etc.) helps to eliminate heart pain during VSD.

Pain in the heart area during VSD is often accompanied by a feeling of lack of air, poor passage into the lungs, a coma in the throat, and a feeling of “goosebumps” running across the skin of the tip of the nose, tongue and limbs. Also, pain in the heart area is often combined with anxious mental disorders or phobias.

The second most common cardiovascular symptom in VSD is cardiac arrhythmia. A person develops a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), jumps in blood pressure begin and vascular reactions appear, such as pallor or redness of the skin, cyanosis of the lips and mucous membranes, hot flashes, chilliness, cold feet and hands. Tachycardia is perceived as strong blows hearts against the chest. During palpitations, a person also experiences weakness, dizziness, a feeling of lack of air and fear of death.

Jumps in blood pressure occur in a third of people suffering from VSD. Moreover, pressure lability is one of the most characteristic and specific signs of VSD. Pressure during VSD can be high, low, normal, or unstable. The strongest fluctuations in pressure are observed during an emotionally expressed human reaction to something or someone. Increased blood pressure during VSD can cause headaches, pain in the heart or spine. With low blood pressure against the background of VSD, migraine headaches are observed, often combined with dizziness, unsteadiness of gait, palpitations and a feeling of lack of air. A sharp drop in blood pressure can cause fainting.

Respiratory distress syndrome

The syndrome of respiratory disorders in VSD is also called Da Costa syndrome, effort syndrome, psychophysiological respiratory reactions or irritable heart syndrome. The most characteristic manifestations of this syndrome are spasms in the pharynx, forearms, hands, legs and feet. Spasm in the limbs is felt in the form of chill-like trembling. A spasm in the throat area leads to a feeling of lack of air, nasal congestion, a lump in the throat, etc. Sometimes there may be a cough without sputum discharge, yawning, snoring and deep breaths taken regularly. With a spasm of the throat and limbs, a person often develops a headache, fainting and pre-fainting symptoms, such as severe weakness, blurred vision, noise in the head, a feeling of unreality of what is happening, palpitations, strong intestinal motility, belching and nausea.

Gastrointestinal Disorder Syndrome

The syndrome of gastrointestinal disorders in VSD manifests itself in the form of loss of appetite, as well as impaired motility of the intestines, esophagus and stomach. A person is worried about psychogenic nausea, abdominal pain, heaviness in the stomach, increased peristalsis, belching of air, flatulence, alternating constipation and diarrhea.

Other symptoms and signs of VSD

Disorders of genitourinary functions with VSD, as a rule, they are represented by impotence, decreased libido, unsatisfactory erection, vaginismus or lack of orgasms. It is relatively rare for a person to develop frequent imperative urination in the absence of pathology of the urinary organs.

Thermoregulation disorders with VSD they are manifested by increased or decreased body temperature, as well as chill-like trembling. The increase in body temperature can be periodic or constant, when low-grade fever lasts for several weeks, months or even years in a row. This temperature does not decrease when taking Aspirin, but normalizes at night or in a state of complete rest.

A decrease in body temperature leads to general weakness, low blood pressure and excessive sweating. Chill-like shivering is similar to that of a fever, but develops against a background of normal body temperature.

Sweating disorders are represented by excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), which can be periodic or constant. Increased sweating occurs with stress, emotional or physical stress.

Salivation disorders occur as dry mouth or excessive saliva. Salivation disorders can be periodic or constant.

Tearing disorders may occur in the form of dry eyes or watery eyes. Excessive lacrimation often develops when exposed to low temperatures and the wind on the eyes, when allergic diseases or while eating. Dry eyes develop less frequently than watery eyes.

Psycho-emotional disorders with VSD are characterized by anxiety, restlessness, irritability, increased fatigue, low performance, internal tension, bad mood, tearfulness and fears.

Pain with VSD can be of any nature and duration. Most often, a person is bothered by headaches, pain in the joints, muscles, stomach and heart. The pain is nonspecific, does not have a clear localization and spreads to nearby organs and tissues. The pain is constant, that is, it does not get worse over time.
Dizziness and headache with VSD are noted very often.

Sensations in the legs and arms during VSD are presented by sensory disturbances (a sensation of crawling “goosebumps”), severe trembling, excessive sweating during emotional stress, as well as constant coldness of the skin.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia: causes, symptoms, diagnosis - video

Attack of VSD

Attacks of VSD can be represented by sympathoadrenal crises, since they are caused by a sharp release of large amounts of adrenaline into the systemic circulation. An attack of VSD begins sharply, suddenly. A person suddenly experiences palpitations, increased blood pressure, pale skin, increased body temperature and developed chills. During an attack, a person has a pronounced strong fear. Stands out after the crisis a large number of light urine and severe weakness develops, including trembling in the legs and the inability to move normally. In the period after the crisis, a sharp decrease in blood pressure is possible.

In addition, an attack of VSD can occur in the form of a vagoinsular crisis. It is characterized by the appearance of sudden fainting, which is preceded by short-term pre-fainting phenomena (for example, darkening in the eyes, noise in the head, severe weakness, a feeling of the unreality of what is happening). Also, during an attack, a person may experience a sharp and strong pain in the abdomen, imperative desire to empty the intestines, increased motility of the digestive tract, decreased blood pressure, bradycardia, increased sweating, as well as a feeling of heat, nausea, melancholy and severe fear.

In rare cases, mixed attacks of VSD are recorded, having polymorphic symptoms characteristic of both vagoinsular and sympathoadrenal forms of crisis. Most often, during a mixed attack, a person suddenly experiences shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, suffocation, severe dizziness, an unsteady gait, a feeling of unreality of what is happening, as well as a pronounced fear of death and madness.

VSD and panic attack

A panic attack is manifested by symptoms similar to those during an attack of VSD. Moreover, the pathogenetic nature of VSD and panic attack is exactly the same, since in both cases, at the time of their development, a large amount of adrenaline, norepinephrine and acetylcholine is released into the blood. Therefore, many patients suffering from panic attacks are diagnosed with vegetative-vascular dystonia. However, VSD and panic attack are various states, which require a completely different approach to therapy. Thus, to eliminate panic attacks, a person needs qualified psychotherapeutic assistance, and to treat VSD, take various medications.

Since VSD and panic attack are easily confused, many doctors do not distinguish between these conditions. Moreover, many practicing doctors in the CIS countries do not know about such a disease as a panic attack, and therefore never diagnose it. And when symptoms of a panic attack are identified, due to their similarity to a vegetative crisis, a diagnosis of VSD is made. Then, having made a diagnosis of VSD, the person is prescribed drugs that reduce blood pressure, relieve headache, discomfort in the heart area, etc.

Meanwhile, during a panic attack, no medications are needed; a person only needs the help of a psychologist. Normalization psychological state will lead to a decrease in blood pressure, relief of headaches and heart pain, as well as a reduction and gradual complete disappearance of panic attacks. Remember that a panic attack is a neurosis, and VSD is an imbalance of the regulatory effects of various parts of the peripheral nervous system.

VSD - principles of treatment

Treatment of VSD should be comprehensive, aimed simultaneously at eliminating the underlying disease and relieving painful symptoms that significantly worsen a person’s quality of life. During treatment, the mechanisms of psycho-emotional regulation of the human condition are necessarily influenced.

If a person suffering from VSD has any neurotic disorders, then complex treatment should include psychotherapy, carried out using various techniques, for example, hypnosis, autogenic training, etc. In addition, it is recommended to widely use non-drug methods to normalize the psycho-emotional sphere , as well as strengthen normal patterns of nervous activity. Currently, the following non-drug methods are used to treat VSD:

• Physiotherapy;
• Breathing exercises ;
• Moderate physical activity in a comfortable atmosphere;
• Acupuncture;
• Balneotherapy;
• Phototherapy.

In addition to psychotherapy and non-drug methods, for the treatment of VSD, medications that normalize mental activity and a person’s condition are necessarily used. Depending on the severity and type of symptoms, the following psychopharmacological agents are used for VSD:
1. Anxiolytic drugs (for example, Relanium, Tranxen, Mezapam, Alprazolam);
2. Sedatives (for example, Stressplant, Novopassit, Persen).

For pain in the heart, severe tachycardia, as well as unstable blood pressure, drugs from the group of beta-blockers are used, such as Propranolol, Atenolol, etc. In addition, Verapamil, Valocordin, valerian tincture, pepper patch or mustard plaster are widely used to relieve heart pain.

If pain in any localization (in the heart, in the abdomen, in the muscles, in the joints, etc.) stubbornly does not respond to treatment, then short courses of tricyclic or serotonergic antidepressants are used to relieve it, for example, Clomipramine, Imipramine, Amitriptyline, Cipramil, Prozac, Coaxil, etc.

If a person suffers from constipation due to VSD, then the diet should be designed in such a way that it contains a lot of fiber, fresh vegetables and fruits, lean meat and fish. It is also necessary to give up alcohol and smoking, exercise daily and take osmotic laxatives as needed, such as lactulose solution (Duphalac, Normaze, etc.) or macrogols (Lavacol, Tranzipeg, Fortrans, etc.). If you are prone to diarrhea, you should, on the contrary, limit the amount of fiber in your diet and avoid any medications or products that can improve bowel movements. If necessary, you can use antidiarrheal drugs based on loperamide (Imodium, Lopedium, etc.) or sorbents (Smecta, Filtrum, Polyphepan, etc.).

To treat excessive sweating, it is necessary to treat the skin with solutions of potassium permanganate, formalin, glutaraldehyde or tannic acid. At elevated temperature bodies are prescribed Pyrroxan or Phentolamine in standard dosages.

In order to eliminate venous insufficiency you can use the drugs Vasoket, Venoplant and Detralex. These remedies eliminate heaviness and noise in the head, as well as throbbing or bursting headaches. Drugs that eliminate the symptoms of venous insufficiency must be taken for a long time - for 1 - 2 months in standard dosages.

To eliminate dizziness against the background of high blood pressure, it is recommended to take drugs that improve cerebral circulation, for example, Cavinton, Oxybral, Vinpocetine, Sermion, Nicerium, Nootropil, etc. If a person is bothered by headaches against the background of low blood pressure, then it is recommended to take drugs to eliminate these symptoms, containing ginkgo biloba extract, for example, Ginkofar, Memoplant, etc.

To quickly relieve dizziness and noise in the head, you need to take Betaserc.

So the spectrum medicines, used to treat VSD, is quite wide. This is due to the fact that, along with treatment of the underlying disease, it is necessary to carry out effective symptomatic therapy aimed at relieving the painful manifestations of VSD.

Breathing exercise for vegetative-vascular dystonia - video

VSD - traditional treatment

Traditional treatment for VSD includes regular physical exercise, quality rest and taking decoctions and infusions of herbs that have a calming, antispasmodic, analgesic and antidepressant effect. Moderate physical activity perfectly trains muscles and blood vessels, reducing painful symptoms and crises of VSD. However, any physical activity during VSD should be soft and smooth; jumping and exercises associated with sudden and jerking movements are strictly prohibited. Quality rest also has high efficiency in the treatment of VSD. The most favorable is periodic sanatorium holidays within the climatic zone in which a person lives permanently. This means that a resident of Siberia does not need to go to the Sochi sanatorium for treatment of VSD, since it is necessary to select a treatment facility located nearby.

In addition, as part of complex therapy for VSD, you can take decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs that can normalize mood, relieve anxiety and relieve mental stress. Currently, the following medicinal herbs are considered the most effective for the treatment of VSD:

• Melissa in the form of teas;
• St. John's wort in the form of a combination drug Novo-Passit;
• Hops in the form of infusion;
• Hawthorn tincture;
• Mint in the form of teas;
• Valerian.

For VSD of the hypertonic type, it is recommended to use herbs that have a sedative effect, for example, hawthorn, raunatin, mint, valerian, etc. For VSD of the hypotonic type, it is recommended to use herbs that improve performance and have a tonic and adaptive effect, for example, ginseng, Eleutherococcus, Chinese lemongrass

Which doctor should I contact for vegetative-vascular dystonia?

Vegetovascular dystonia refers to nervous diseases, and therefore, if you suspect this pathology, you must contact neurologist (make an appointment). It is the neurologist who is the main specialist involved in the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia. However, depending on the symptoms a person has, the neurologist may refer the patient for consultation to other doctors whose competence includes treating the organ from which disturbing symptoms are observed. Therefore, treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia is often carried out jointly by doctors of several specialties. Most often, patients with vegetative-vascular dystonia are observed by neurologists in collaboration with cardiologists (sign up).

What tests and examinations can a doctor prescribe for vegetative-vascular dystonia?

Since vegetative-vascular dystonia manifests itself in a variety of symptoms from various organs, first of all, the doctor prescribes the following laboratory tests to assess the general condition of the body and identify possible organic diseases:

• General blood test (sign up);
• General urine test; sign up).

The above tests allow us to identify organic pathology, if any, and begin a targeted examination to identify specific disease. But if the tests are normal (which is observed with vegetative-vascular dystonia), then this is indirect evidence that the person suffers from dystonia. In this case, the doctor prescribes various instrumental examinations to further confirm vegetative-vascular dystonia.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia is a kind of diagnosis of exclusion, that is, it is diagnosed only in the case when pathological changes are not detected in the organs from which there are symptoms. This means that to confirm dystonia, it is necessary to examine all organs that have clinical symptoms using instrumental methods. Thus, it is obvious that the doctor bases the further (after tests) examination on the basis of the symptoms described by the patient.

Thus, when in a person against the background of vegetative-vascular dystonia the syndrome of respiratory and cardiovascular disorders prevails (pain in the heart, irregular heart rhythm, rapid heartbeat, increased or decreased blood pressure, dizziness, headaches, feeling of lack of air, spasms in the throat, congestion nose, cough without sputum, noise in the head, hot flashes, cold feet and hands, chilliness, etc.), then the doctor prescribes the following instrumental examinations to identify pathological changes in the heart, lungs and blood vessels:

• Blood pressure measurement (sign up);
• Listening to the lungs and heart sounds using a stethoscope (sign up);
• Electrocardiography (sign up);
• Echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) (sign up
  If vegetative-vascular dystonia manifests itself predominantly as a syndrome of gastrointestinal disorders (spasmodic abdominal pain, flatulence, belching, rumbling, alternating diarrhea and constipation, etc.), then the doctor prescribes the following tests and examinations to identify or exclude pathological changes in the digestive organs tract:
  • Scatological analysis of feces;
  • Fecal occult blood test;
  • Ultrasound of the abdominal organs (make an appointment);
  • Fibroesophagogastroduodenoscopy (sign up);
  • Colonoscopy (make an appointment) or sigmoidoscopy (sign up).
  If the results of the above examinations do not provide evidence in favor of pathology of the digestive tract, then the doctor makes a diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia. But if a pathology is identified, then the symptoms are caused by the VSD, but by a very specific disease.

  When VSD is manifested by a violation of genitourinary functions (reduced libido, vaginismus, flaccid erection, lack of orgasm, imperative urination, etc.) - the doctor prescribes Ultrasound of the pelvic organs (sign up), gynecological examination(sign up) in women through the vagina and urologically – in men through anus, caverject test in men, cystoscopy (make an appointment), urography (sign up), and tests for sexually transmitted infections (sign up), urethral smear (sign up) and vagina.

  If VSD is manifested by chills, increased or decreased body temperature, sweating, then the doctor usually limits general analysis blood, which allows you to identify or exclude an infectious-inflammatory process in the body, which in most cases is the cause of excessive sweating, chills and abnormal temperature. However, to exclude possible other pathology that can provoke these symptoms, the doctor may prescribe Ultrasound of the thyroid gland (performs ophthalmoscopy, biomicroscopy, measurement of intraocular pressure (sign up), definition of acuity (sign up) And fields of view (sign up), Vesta test, fluorescein instillation test, prescribes allergic skin tests(sign up), microscopy of fingerprint smears from the conjunctiva.

  Before use, you should consult a specialist.

VSD is symptom complex, which combines various dysfunctions of the autonomic system and is caused by disorders of their regulation. The interpretation of VSD is as follows: vegetative-vascular dystonia. The concept of “dystonia” speaks of imbalances in the tone of such parts of the nervous system as the sympathetic and parasympathetic, as a source of various autonomic disorders.

The main mechanism for the manifestation of symptoms of VSD is considered to be emotional stress in the form of acute shock, prolonged emotional experience, leading to exhaustion of the nervous system. VSD is characterized by several disease syndromes, such as cardiac, tachycardic, bradycardic and arrhythmic.

VSD reasons

There are a variety of reasons that cause various disorders of the cardiovascular system (cardiovascular system), among which are: infectious diseases, injuries, severe anxiety, severe operations, blood loss. In addition, the development of VSD can be facilitated by physical overload, smoking, alcohol abuse, chronic infections, as well as other serious illnesses.

Many doctors associate the development of VSD with hereditary etiology. Also, this syndrome may have a constitutional nature of development and manifest itself already in early childhood in the form of instability of vegetative parameters.

VSD refers to a certain form of neurosis in which the regulation of vascular tone is disrupted. Thus, the main role in the formation of this disease is given to disorders of the entire nervous system. Insufficient support of a vegetative nature is characteristic of VSD, which can develop with endocrine changes in the body during adolescence. Basically, vegetative disorders at this age manifest themselves in the form of minor or severe disorders endocrine system.

VSD, which is characterized by the hypotonic type, is diagnosed in adolescents and children. The cause of the development of the disease is acceleration, in which S.S.S. does not have time to provide the body with the necessary nutrition for its growing body too quickly. VSD at this age can be triggered by poor heredity, improper daily routine, conflicts at home or at school, as well as previous infectious diseases.

Stress is one of the fundamental causes of VSD. With constant strong mental and nervous stress in a morally unfavorable environment, disorders of the nervous system can cause the development of serious diseases.

For example, VSD with a hypertensive type of disease can provoke the development of hypertension. But with normalization of wakefulness and sleep, sufficient rest and limited physical activity, this can contribute to the disappearance of all symptoms of VSD and lead to recovery.

Many negative emotions in the form of anger, resentment, frustration and anxiety are the cause of the development of persistent neurosis. People who are sick react quite sharply to any unfavorable situation. They are not able to switch, to break out of the circle of troubles, and the protracted course of such experiences during neurosis lead to a negative course of VSD.

As a rule, VSD of the hypertensive type develops as a result of stress associated with increased functioning of the sympathetic part of the nervous system. Neuroses that occur as a result of increased activity of the parasympathetic part of the nervous system contribute to the development of hypotensive type VSD.

Reasons that influence the occurrence of VSD include alcohol and smoking. Nicotine and alcohol are poisons that affect two important systems human: nervous system and S.S.S. First of all, nicotine affects blood vessels, specifically affecting the autonomic nervous system. It has long been established that nicotine disrupts the blood supply to the walls of blood vessels and leads to their permeability. Due to changes in blood vessels, smokers experience uncoordinated, abnormal vascular reactions. Smoking can provoke the development of neurosis, as it reduces the endurance of the nervous system.

Alcohol is poison neurotropic action. It completely disrupts the function of the nervous system, disrupts metabolic processes in the body and the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, and is the main risk factor that increases the likelihood of the formation of VSD.

VSD symptoms

The most common types of diseases include cardiological and systemic neurological. But basically all these disorders manifest themselves in a mixed type.

Symptoms consist of pale skin and tachycardia, which is accompanied by an increase in blood pressure and a decrease in intestinal motility, as well as the appearance of weakness in the limbs and chills, a feeling of anxiety and fear, which are manifestations of vegetative neurosis.

In addition to sympathetic-tonic manifestations, vagotonic symptoms occur in the form of a decrease in heart rate, breathing discomfort, facial flushing, sweating, low blood pressure, fever, weakness, heaviness in the head, nausea and dizziness, etc. With VSD, there are various somatic symptoms that simulate complex diseases such as and. Therefore, many diseases can be simulated by attacks of vegetative neurosis.

Among the most common psychoneurotic symptoms of VSD are behavioral and motivational disorders. In this case, patients are characterized by disturbances in emotional balance and sleep, the appearance of tearfulness with feelings of fear or anxiety, which lead to self-flagellation and the inability to make a decision.

In addition to the general symptoms, a respiratory syndrome may be added, in which chest compression and lack of air occur. At the same time, headaches and tinnitus, as well as lightheadedness and fainting, are noted. At the same time, patients develop hypochondria, they lose interest in life and go deeper into themselves, becoming very irritable and conflict-ridden for no particular reason.

As a rule, almost all patients complain of a depressed state, lack of meaning in life and previous activity, and show anxiety with characteristic fear. Many are frightened by the loss of sexual relationships and previous interests. People who cannot make a decision for a long time engage in self-flagellation. But more optimistic patients with VSD are not even aware of what is hidden in them. This symptom does not allow patients to fully exist in society. Neurotics are in a state where they try to maintain a balance of well-being so as not to let down the people around them. At the same time, they constantly feel asthenia and do not tolerate various loads physical and mental, they develop dependence on the weather, so they cannot concentrate on their responsibilities and affairs.

An important role in the formation of the disease belongs to various conflict situations at school and at home, overprotection, increased workload at school, psychological neglect of the little patient, and stress of an acute or chronic nature. Predisposing factors for VSD in children include infectious, somatic and endocrine diseases, constitutional abnormalities, caries, tonsillitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis and neuroinfections with traumatic brain injuries.

The autonomic nervous system of children is directly affected by unfavorable weather conditions, environmental conditions, excessive stress, both mental and physical, poor nutrition, physical inactivity, disruption of the daily routine, lack of sleep and hormonal changes during puberty. Basically, VSD in children is strongly manifested during a period of rapid growth, under functional loads on the body with lability of the nervous system.

As a rule, disorders of the autonomic nervous system manifest themselves in the form of a variety of reactions sympathetic division and parasympathetic, which are caused by disturbances in the production of norepinephrine, acetylcholine, polypeptides, prostaglandins and vascular sensitivity.

When diagnosing VSD in children, various criteria are taken into account, which are considered important in contrast to the forms of the disease.

The etiology of VSD can be psychogenic, infectious-toxic, dishormonal, essential and mixed in nature.

Depending on the disorders of the autonomic nervous system, VSD in children can be of sympathicotonic, vagotonic and mixed type. Considering the prevalence of the disease, it can appear in the form of a generalized, systemic or local form. In addition, VSD in children has mild, severe and moderate forms, and can also occur latently, permanently and paroxysmally.

The clinical symptoms of VSD in a child consist of the predominance of sympathicotonia or vagotonia. Cardiac syndrome is characterized by the development of paroxysmal pain in the heart area, arrhythmia in the form of irregular extrasystole, bradycardia or tachycardia, increased or decreased pressure. With predominant cardiovascular disorders in the structure of the VSD, they speak of a neurocirculatory form of dystonia.

The most dangerous syndrome is a neurotic manifestation of VSD. At the same time, children quickly get tired, they have sleep disturbances, they remember poorly, and complain of dizziness and pain in the head. Children with VSD are always out of mood, anxious about something, suspicious, and emotionally labile. They sometimes experience hysterics and depression.

Respiratory syndrome is characterized by shortness of breath at rest and with slight exertion, and there is a lack of air. Thermoregulation disturbances in VSD in children are expressed by chills, chilliness, and poor weather tolerance.

From the digestive system, nausea appears, appetite increases or decreases, causeless pain in the abdomen and spastic pain occur.

Symptoms characteristic of the urinary system include swelling under the eyes and frequent urination. As a rule, such children with VSD have a marbled skin color, sweat a lot, have increased skin greasiness and red dermographism.

Autonomic crises occur in three types, such as sympathoadrenal, vagoinsular and mixed. Although they are much less common, unlike adults.

Children are characterized by vagotonic crises, which are accompanied by cardiac arrest, lack of air, the appearance of bradycardia and sweating, asthenia and hypotension.

Children with VSD necessarily need consultation from many specialists, such as a pediatrician, pediatric neurologist, cardiologist, endocrinologist, otolaryngologist, gastroenterologist and ophthalmologist. In this case, other pathologies are excluded to make a diagnosis of VSD.

In choosing treatment methods, preference is given to non-drug therapy, as well as normalization of sleep, physical activity, daily routine and consultation with a child psychologist. Also, with VSD in children, positive dynamics can be achieved by using massage courses, physiotherapy, and exercise therapy. In addition, swimming, taking a therapeutic shower and general baths with turpentine, radon, pine needles and carbon dioxide are recommended.

If necessary, use sedatives, nootropic drugs, multivitamin complexes, and according to indications - tranquilizers and antidepressants.

Prevention of VSD in children consists of preventing the impact of risk factors on the child’s body, creating general strengthening measures and harmonizing the development of children. Such patients diagnosed with VSD are monitored at the dispensary and receive systematic specific treatment.

Pain with VSD

As a rule, VSD is accompanied by various pains. This is mainly pain in the head and in the heart area. In the first case, they can be either temporary or permanent, and can also manifest themselves in the form of tension, cluster pain, etc.

Pain in the head, which is characterized by its monotony, is pain of tension. In this case, patients have a feeling that the head is being squeezed by a helmet and at the same time it begins to ache. In addition, the pain covers the entire head with equal intensity. These attacks appear after shocks, experiences, work that requires concentration, as well as stress. To get rid of tension pain, just rest a little or massage the collar area.

Migraine with VSD is a paroxysmal pain with strong pulsation and, as a rule, located on one side of the head. The pain can be localized in the eyes, temples and forehead. The condition worsens if nausea, vomiting, trembling, cold hands, photophobia and intolerance to sounds, especially loud ones, occur. Migraines can be caused by stress, physical activity, or being in a noisy place. The pain goes away after a cool shower and good rest.

Cluster pain develops at night and causes insomnia, which causes suffering to patients. It is mainly localized on the head or face, but only on one side. Such an attack is very difficult to bear in the first ten minutes. At this moment, the eyes water, the eyelids droop, the face becomes red and begins to sweat.

Heart pain during VSD can manifest itself as unpleasant sensations, and can also be completely unbearable and cause excruciating suffering in the form of depriving a person of rest and good sleep, causing a feeling of fear of death. There are different types of pain in the heart, such as burning, cutting, aching, pinching, stabbing, pressing. At the same time, there is a feeling of something foreign in the chest area. The pain is localized on the left in the subclavian region or behind the sternum and can radiate to the left arm, teeth and neck. The pain can last from a few seconds to several hours. It can also manifest itself as a slow increase or a sudden attack.

Basically, pain in the heart with VSD is a consequence of fatigue, physical stress, anxiety, changes in weather conditions, the premenstrual period, alcohol intake, heaviness in the left hand and forced breathing. Sometimes pain can appear after an unpleasant dream.

Heart pain with VSD is characterized by one feature. As a rule, it appears after physical exertion, and not during its implementation. And it arises against a background of anxious feelings, restlessness, lethargy, apathy and weakness.

There are several types of heart pain due to VSD. The first type is characterized by constant aching or pinching pain as a result of depression or melancholy. They are tolerated quite easily and do not affect human performance. These pains occur for no particular reason and slowly get worse. Treated with Menthol and Valerian.

The second type of pain is characterized by intensity and duration in the form of a burning sensation in the heart area. These pains are long-lasting and intense, for which Valocordin and Validol do not help. But mustard plasters on the heart area and painkillers bring relief.

With the third type of pain, it is characterized by a protracted course, with a sudden onset and spread throughout the chest. Very often, a rapid heartbeat appears, there is not enough air, a person begins to sweat heavily, urination becomes more frequent, and sometimes a feeling of fear of death arises.

With the fourth type of pain, there is a paroxysmal manifestation caused by emotions. Their main difference is their short duration and relief with Nitroglycerin.

The fifth type of heart pain is characterized by its occurrence as a result of physical activity. Such pain occurs during an exacerbation of the disease.

VSD treatment

Treatment of VSD involves eliminating stressful influences, maximizing the creation of a favorable mood for the recovery process and carrying out relief manipulations associated with the painful symptoms of VSD.

First of all, they establish normal family and everyday relationships, eliminate stressful situations at work, at school, in the service, etc. Thus, the patient’s neuropsychic state is normalized. Then walks in the fresh air, good healthy sleep, a diet characterized by limiting unhealthy foods are recommended, and it is also necessary to give up bad habits, coffee and strong tea.

The main and leading place in the treatment of VSD is given to psychotherapy, which can take place both individually and in groups. With a mild form of VSD, you can limit yourself to taking Motherwort and Valerian medications.

At the same time, patients are prescribed reflexology, massage, physiotherapy, aesthetic therapy, electrosleep, and physical therapy.

To increase the body's resistance to stress, it is recommended to take Ginseng, Eleuthorococcus, Schisandra, as well as harden yourself and perform breathing exercises.

To consolidate the results of VSD therapy, sanatorium-resort treatment using such types of therapy as climatotherapy, sea bathing, mud, and mineral waters is indicated.

After visiting a neurologist, many people find that medical card neurocirculatory dystonia or VSD. Naturally, a person wants to receive information on how to decipher the diagnosis and understand what VSD is in simple language. This is a pathology that, according to medical data, occurs in more than 40% of patients of various age categories. Decoding the diagnosis of VSD sounds like vegetative-vascular dystonia. It is advisable for every person to know about the causes of the disease and its manifestations in order to consult a specialist in time for effective therapy.

A person who has heard a diagnosis of VSD from a neurologist wants to know what it is.

Knowledge of how VSD is deciphered is not sufficient to obtain information about the essence of the disease. To explain in simple terms what VSD is, it is necessary to understand the source of the development of the disease. Today, scientists more often resort to other terminology associated with pathology, pointing to autonomic dysfunction. Because this definition conveys the meaning of emerging violations more deeply.

The ANS (autonomic nervous system) regulates and controls the processes of internal organs and is autonomous, not subject to human will. It is necessary to maintain balance and equilibrium of the entire body. It controls the maintenance of optimal levels of blood pressure, blood circulation, body temperature, immune and endocrine activity. Accordingly, VSD are disorders in the autonomic nervous system, manifested in the failure of its control functions listed above.

An interesting fact about the pathology is that the disease vegetative-vascular dystonia over the past decades does not imply a specific disease, since it is not included in the International Classification. A diagnosis is usually understood as a set of symptoms that arise when exposed to various factors of the external and internal environment. Therefore, when a person tries to understand what VSD means, he is faced with many contradictions and veiled medical phrases, although the etiology of the disease speaks only of a complex of various manifestations associated with a malfunction of the VNS.

The pathology can appear in early childhood or adolescence, but, as a rule, it does not cause much concern. According to statistics, the peak occurs in the age period from 20 to 40 years. It has been proven that the female population is more susceptible to the disease than the male population. Every person should know the reasons that can contribute to the development of autonomic dysfunction:

• frequent stressful situations, overwork, depression;
• unbalanced diet;
• the presence of acute or chronic infections;
• unhealthy lifestyle (smoking, frequent drinking);
• sedentary lifestyle;
• hormonal disturbances or changes;
• individual psychological properties of a person.

According to statistics, the most common reason for the development of VSD is the last factor. It has been proven that the most impressionable people are susceptible to autonomic dysfunction. This often manifests itself in at a young age in girls or boys who perceive life's difficulties with particular sensitivity.

Also, smoking and alcohol are frequent stimuli that lead to disruption of the optimal functioning of the autonomic system. Symptoms of the disease clearly manifest themselves in smokers with a long history, or in people who have given up the bad habit after many years.

Smoking and alcohol stimulate disorders of the autonomic system

Practice shows that when the causes associated with the development of VSD are eliminated, the disease often recedes. Therefore, it is extremely important to monitor your health from a young age and avoid provoking factors.

Symptoms of VSD

According to patient reviews, in adults, symptoms of VSD occur with varying intensity and regularity. Modern medicine classifies various manifestations pathologies that are commonly called syndromes.

Cardiovascular syndrome or cardiovascular. From the name it follows that the symptoms are associated with cardiac dysfunction. Reviews from patients about VSD of this type are characterized by the following manifestations:

• heart rhythm disturbance;
• signs of tachycardia;
• paleness or redness of the skin during an attack;
• heart pain during a panic attack;
• excessive sweating;
• feeling of coldness in the extremities.

The nature of the sensations can be varied: tingling, pressing, aching or throbbing pain. Patients are often frightened by such manifestations associated with cardiac activity and they turn to a cardiologist. To understand the reason, it is necessary to give the patient nitroglycerin during the next attack. In case of disturbances associated with the functioning of the heart, the pain will subside, but in case of VSD, it will remain the same.

• Hyperdynamic bowel syndrome. This type of VSD disease manifests itself in pain, which often does not have an exact localization. The patient feels that the abdomen is becoming overly active and discomfort appears in the navel area. The syndrome is accompanied by problems associated with the gastrointestinal tract: periodic nausea, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, bloating and appetite disturbance.
• Thermoregulation syndrome appears quite often in people suffering from autonomic dysfunction. Its essence is a change in body temperature, which can be decreased or slightly increased. Studying the symptoms of VSD according to patient reviews, we can conclude that most often the body temperature is kept at around 35-35.8 degrees. Drowsiness and lethargy occur, which interfere with optimal functioning. Along with other syndromes, violation of thermoregulation is one of the serious ones and requires emergency medical attention.
• Hyperexcretion syndrome or in other words increased sweating. Patients note that excessive sweating makes significant adjustments to their normal lifestyle. Some patients are diagnosed with hyperhidrosis and prescribed therapy to eliminate it. In this case, it is necessary to seek help from a neurologist who can identify the cause of the disorders. It is possible that this pathology is a direct sign indicating the existence of VSD. The syndrome most often manifests itself in excessive release of moisture on the surface of the palms, feet and in the armpits.

Excessive sweating syndrome often accompanies VSD

Hyperventilation syndrome It is less common and manifests itself in the form of increased breathing. In exciting or stressful situations, a person experiences feelings:

• lack of air,
• tightness in the chest area,
• difficulty breathing,
• a feeling of cardiac arrest or increased heart rate.

Many patients note that a panic attack occurs most often when thinking about possible death, incomprehensible anxiety or fear of the future.

Not every person exhibits obvious symptoms of one of the syndromes. Most often, the patient feels several manifestations related to the general condition of the body and does not attach due importance to them.

The symptoms described below, which occur periodically, may indicate the presence of autonomic dysfunction:

• heart rhythm disturbances due to severe anxiety;
• impaired breathing;
• weakness, drowsiness, apathy;
• insomnia;
• general trembling;
• cold extremity syndrome;
• indigestion;
• swelling;
• increased sweating;
• tinnitus;
• excessive feelings of anxiety and suspiciousness.

The symptoms do not necessarily appear in combination. You can constantly feel cold hands, feet, fatigue, and only when a stressful situation occurs - disturbances in the functioning of the heart, or nausea. The mystery of VSD is that the disease manifests itself individually in each person. If you notice one or more symptoms, you should consult a neurologist for advice.

Treatment of VSD, patient reviews

There is often a situation when patients with VSD do not know what to do. Reviews that can be heard or read online confirm this fact. People suffering from autonomic dysfunction not only try to understand what VSD is in simple language, treatment is a major problem affecting many. Therapy for this pathology is necessary and this is confirmed by many specialists. VSD disease involves complex treatment, which is prescribed primarily by a neurologist.

Do not treat yourself - contact a neurologist

The most difficult stage in therapeutic intervention is eliminating the causes that led to the autonomic disorder. Reviews from patients with vegetative-vascular dystonia indicate that a person is often independently able to determine the factors contributing to the manifestation of the syndrome. They indicate stress, overwork, quarrels and conflicts in the family, leading to an attack of VSD.

Such patients, who are aware of the real state of affairs and look at the situation adequately and without fear, as a rule, recover faster. If a person does not understand where the disease originates, the first stage of treatment will be the help of a qualified psychotherapist. He will help you understand the reasons and teach you how to cope with them yourself to prevent a new attack. Additionally, relaxing activities are prescribed, these can be:

• yoga,
• autorelaxation,
• Pilates,
• swimming,
• jogging,
• art therapy.

Since among the factors leading to vegetative-vascular dystonia there are social aspects, the patient is recommended to pay attention to lifestyle and its improvement. You can observe reviews regarding the treatment of VSD in adults, who talk about the effectiveness of therapy after giving up bad habits or adjusting activities. If a man work time spends in a sitting position, he needs to observe occupational hygiene. For example, when working at a computer, it is as follows:

• Every 40 minutes you should take a break from your activity and perform simple physical actions (regular walking);
• control eye relaxation by looking out the window into the distance;
• Every hour, stretch your arms and lower back, which are actively involved in work.

The complex also includes medicinal effects. It helps eliminate the symptoms of VSD in an adult during treatment. Reviews from patients indicate that taking prescribed sedatives and sedatives has a beneficial effect on the effectiveness of therapy. But you should not resort to independent choice of drugs. The specialist selects the medication based on the severity of the pathology and the individual characteristics of the patient.

In some cases, the use of antidepressants is required. Today pharmacology has a wide range effective means from VSD, reviews of which are mostly positive.

1. From sedatives plant origin preference is given to Persen. The drug is available without a doctor's prescription, but is not recommended for independent use.
2. Of the synthetic tranquilizers (sedatives), experts often prefer Phenazepam, Tofisopam, and Elenium. Medicines should be taken strictly as recommended by your doctor. Self-treatment may lead to complications or side effects.
3. Among antidepressants, Imipramine and Amitriptyline are considered effective. Helps increase concentration and efficiency, relieves anxiety and irritability. Available with a doctor's prescription.

It is worth considering that drug treatment is effective only in the case of an integrated approach with psychotraining and compliance with specialist recommendations regarding a healthy lifestyle.

In addition to the main stages of therapy, neurologists often prescribe additional procedures:

• massage,
• electrophoresis,
• physiotherapy.

Relaxation massage is considered as an additional method of treating VSD

Only strict adherence to all doctor’s recommendations will help you get rid of the causes and symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia in the shortest possible time through treatment. Feedback from patients serves as additional evidence that therapy is not only recommended for VSD, but is also a prerequisite in the fight against the disease. Only faith in your own recovery and the doctor’s experience will help you get rid of autonomic disorder as soon as possible. Skeptical people, as practice shows, often return to the initial stage of development of the disease.

VSD - what kind of disease is this? Vegetovascular dystonia (VSD) is one of the most important problems in medicine. Doctors at the Yusupov Hospital diagnose symptoms of autonomic dysfunction in 50–70% of all patients who come to them. The first manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia can occur in childhood or adolescence, but the most common manifestations of VSD are at a young age (from 20 to 45 years). VSD occurs 3 times less often in men than in women.

Doctors at the Yusupov Hospital take an individual approach to assessing signs of autonomic disorders. Based on the results carried out using modern equipment from the world's leading manufacturers, a diagnosis is established and a differential diagnosis of VSD with vegetative-vascular dystonia syndrome is carried out. Neurologists provide pharmacotherapy with effective drugs. Rehabilitologists use modern methods non-drug treatment. Professors and doctors of the highest category use original rehabilitation methods. Psychologists provide support to patients using innovative psychotherapeutic techniques.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia syndrome

Vegetovascular dystonia (VSD) in ICD 10 in adults does not have a separate code. The World Health Organization considers VSD as a set of disorders of the autonomic system (ICD 10 code - from G90 to G99.) VSD of the hypertensive type refers to “other psycho-emotional disorders.” Code R45.8 (other signs of pathologies of psycho-emotional state). VSD of the hypotonic type has code R 45.8. VSD of mixed type is classified as samatophore dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ICD code F45.3).

VSD - what is it? In simple terms we can say that VSD is a dysfunction of the autonomic system. The diagnosis of “vegetative-vascular dystonia” is absent in ICD 10 and in the classifiers of diseases in developed countries of the world. Since the autonomic nervous system provides the following parameters for the balance of the internal environment of the body:

• body temperature;
• heart rate;
• arterial pressure;
• breathing rate;
• metabolic rate;
• sweating;
• stress mobilization of the body to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Doctors consider vegetative-vascular dystonia as a syndrome that includes various disorders of somatic functions. The term “dystonia” reflects traditional ideas about an imbalance in the tone of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems as a source of functional autonomic disorders. Errors in the functioning of the autonomic nervous system are manifested by disturbances in internal balance:

• blood circulation;
• heat exchange;
• digestion.

Manifestations of dystonia can be permanent or manifest themselves in the form of crises (fainting, panic attacks and other paroxysmal conditions).

What does the diagnosis of VSD mean? Vegetovascular dystonia is a very vague term. It can hide anything: from an unrecognized somatic disease and the initial stage of organic damage to the central nervous system to endogenous depression and situationally determined affective reactions that accompany schizophrenia and manic-depressive psychosis.

Is VSD dangerous? Symptoms of autonomic disorders can occur when various diseases or represent an independent syndrome of vegetative-vascular dystonia. It can be primary due to congenital or acquired inferiority of autonomic regulation. Secondary syndrome of vegetative-vascular dystonia accompanies a large number of diseases of the internal organs and nervous system.

There are disorders of autonomic function at the suprasegmental and segmental levels. Segmental disorders are caused by damage to the segmental autonomic apparatus. They are represented by trophic-vegetative-vascular syndrome and progressive autonomic failure syndrome. The basis of suprasegmental disorders is a dysfunction of the structures of the hypothalamus and limbic system. They are characterized by hypothalamic and psychovegetative. This is a deeper disorder that combines not only dysfunction of autonomic regulation, but also of other regulatory centers located in the hypothalamic region.

Often after acute or chronic illnesses or stressful situations immune-vegetative-endocrine syndrome develops. It is manifested by dysfunction of suprasegmental structures. Dysfunction occurs as a result of primary depletion of higher cortical functions, which clinicians call asthenic syndrome.

What kind of disease is VSD

Is VSD a myth or reality? Vegetative-vascular dystonia is considered as an independent disease that occurs for many reasons, but has one mechanism of development. It occurs in the presence of predisposing characteristics of the patient’s body. VSD syndrome is included in the structure of individual nosological forms (neuroses, organic lesions of the central nervous system, primary lesions of the endocrine glands and internal organs).

What is VSD? In medicine, VSD is considered not so much as an independent form, but as a syndrome, and the factors that cause this disease are grouped as follows:

• constitutional nature;
• endocrine changes in the body;
• primary damage to visceral organs;
• primary diseases of the endocrine glands;
• allergy;
• neuroses;
• organic lesions of the brain and spinal cord.

In cases where vegetative-vascular dystonia does not act as a syndrome, but as an independent disease, the development of the pathology is due to the congenital inferiority of the autonomic nervous system.

Risk factors for VSD

The following risk factors contribute to the occurrence and aggravation of the course of VSD:

• mental, emotional, physical overload;
• sudden changes in environmental parameters;
• sleep disorders;
• dysfunction of the central nervous and endocrine systems;
• acute and chronic diseases of internal organs;
• pathology associated with the genital area and spine;
• exogenous or endogenous intoxication.

VZD arises and progresses under the influence of acute and chronic stress. The syndrome of vegetative-vascular dysfunction is characteristic of puberty and menopause. It occurs during pregnancy and lactation. Abuse of alcohol, nicotine, drugs, and trauma infections cause exacerbation of VSD.

Diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia

The diagnosis of VSD is made by doctors at the Yusupov Hospital based on an analysis of the results of a comprehensive examination:

• taking anamnesis;
• neurological examination;
• electrocardiography;
• 24-hour blood pressure monitoring;
• vegetative EEG tests;
• ultrasound examination;
• acupuncture diagnostic methods.

To exclude organic brain damage, neurologists use modern neuroimaging methods: computer, magnetic resonance and multislice tomography. Electroencephalography is used to study the electrical activity of the brain.

Symptoms of VSD

Clinical manifestations of VSD depend on causal factors. Since it is mainly based on a systemic defect in autonomic regulation, the signs of vegetative-vascular dystonia are varied. They reflect the dysfunction of many organs and systems.

In clinical practice, vegetative-vascular dystonia syndrome is presented in three variants:

• VSD of constitutional nature;
• VSD against the background of endocrine changes;
• VSD in organic lesions of the central nervous system.

VSD of a constitutional nature manifests itself in early childhood. This syndrome is characterized by significant instability of autonomic parameters. The following signs of VSD are observed in children:

• rapid change in skin color;
• sweating;
• nausea;
• fluctuations in blood pressure, heart rate;
• pain and dyskinesia of the gastrointestinal tract;
• tendency to low-grade fever (slight increase in temperature);
• poor tolerance of mental and physical stress;
• weather dependence.

Often these disorders are familial and hereditary in nature.

For the syndrome of vegetative-vascular dystonia against the background of endocrine changes in the body in puberty characterized by insufficient vegetative support. VSD syndrome with organic brain damage manifests itself with a varied symptomatic picture. The most striking picture of autonomic symptoms occurs when the deep structures of the brain are damaged - the brainstem, hypothalamus and limbic brain.

If pathological process located in the caudal part of the brain stem, the patient experiences autonomic-vestibular crises. They begin with dizziness and proceed with a predominance of vegetoinsular symptoms. In organic pathology, the main symptoms are neuroendocrine and motivational (thirst, hunger, libido) in nature, accompanied by pathological paroxysmal drowsiness and impaired thermoregulation. Damage to the internal part of the temporal lobe of the brain is manifested primarily by attacks of temporal lobe epilepsy.

Treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Doctors at the Yusupov Hospital provide complex therapy for VSD. It includes etiological, pathogenetic and symptomatic treatment. If the cause of VSD is somatic disease, spend it adequate therapy with the involvement of specialists of the relevant profile (endocrinologist, gastroenterologist, pulmonologist). When VSD occurs after stress, psychotherapeutic techniques are used to correct the patient’s psycho-emotional status.

To influence the mechanisms of disease development, correction of astheno-neurotic syndrome is carried out, which in most cases is the basis for the development of suprasegmental autonomic disorders. To do this, use drugs that have the following effects:

• improve neuroplastic processes and mediator metabolism;
• contribute to the restoration of cerebral hemodynamics and the energy resource of neurons;
• increase the resistance of nervous tissue to hypoxia.

Correction of psycho-emotional dysfunctions is carried out depending on their modality with the mandatory use of psychotherapeutic techniques and psychotropic drugs (anxiolytics, antidepressants, tranquilizers). When choosing vascular therapy aimed at eliminating disturbances in cerebral vascular tone and ensuring adequate delivery of nutrients, the spectrum and type of brain disorders are taken into account. For arterial spasm, vasodilator drugs (vinpocetine, nimodipine, nicergoline, vincamine) are prescribed. If venous dysfunction occurs, use medicines, which have venotropic properties (preparations of horse chestnut, diosmin, ginkgo biloba). With increased intracranial pressure Osmodiuretics are used, less often loop and saluretics. Agents that improve neuroplastic processes include neuropeptides, vitamins, phospholipids and stimulators of their synthesis.

The symptomatic principle of treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia includes the entire range of therapeutic measures that are aimed at eliminating the main manifestations of the disease. With the development of hypotension and syncope, sympathomimetics are prescribed, and with increased blood pressure, antihypertensive drugs are prescribed. In hyperacid conditions, inhibitors are used proton pump and histamine receptor blockers, and for dizziness they give preference to central H3 receptor blockers. You can undergo adequate treatment for VSD by making an appointment by calling the Yusupov Hospital.

Bibliography

• ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases)
• Yusupov Hospital
• Badalyan L. O. Neuropathology. - M.: Education, 1982. - P.307-308.
• Bogolyubov, Medical rehabilitation (manual, in 3 volumes). // Moscow - Perm. - 1998.
• Popov S. N. Physical rehabilitation. 2005. - P.608.

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*The information on the site is for informational purposes only. All materials and prices posted on the site are not a public offer, defined by the provisions of Art. 437 Civil Code of the Russian Federation. For accurate information, please contact the clinic staff or visit our clinic.

– a complex of functional disorders, which is based on a violation of the regulation of vascular tone by the autonomic nervous system. Manifested by paroxysmal or constant heartbeat, excessive sweating, headache, tingling in the heart area, redness or paleness of the face, chilliness, fainting. It can lead to the development of neuroses, persistent arterial hypertension, and significantly worsen the quality of life.

During puberty, the development of internal organs and the growth of the body as a whole outpaces the development of neuroendocrine regulation, which leads to worsening autonomic dysfunction. At this age, vegetative-vascular dystonia is manifested by pain in the heart, irregularities and palpitations, lability of blood pressure, psychoneurological disorders (increased fatigue, decreased memory and attention, short temper, high anxiety, irritability). Vegetative-vascular dystonia occurs in 12-29% of children and adolescents.

In adult patients, the occurrence of vegetative-vascular dystonia can be provoked and aggravated due to the influence of chronic diseases, depression, stress, neuroses, traumatic brain injuries and injuries to the cervical spine, endocrine diseases, gastrointestinal pathologies, hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause). At any age, a risk factor for the development of vegetative-vascular dystonia is constitutional heredity.

Classification of vegetative-vascular dystonia

To date, a unified classification of vegetative-vascular dystonia has not been developed. According to various authors, autonomic dysfunction differs according to a number of the following criteria:

• According to the predominance of sympathetic or parasympathetic effects: sympathicotonic, parasympathicotonic (vagotonic) and mixed (sympathetic-parasympathetic) type of vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• According to the prevalence of autonomic disorders: generalized (with the involvement of several organ systems at the same time), systemic (with the involvement of one organ system) and local (local) forms of vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• According to the severity of the course: latent (hidden), paroxysmal (paroxysmal) and permanent (constant) variants of the course of vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• According to the severity of manifestations: mild, moderate and severe;
• By etiology: primary (constitutionally determined) and secondary (caused by various pathological conditions) vegetative-vascular dystonia.

Based on the nature of the attacks that complicate the course of vegetative-vascular dystonia, sympathoadrenal, vagoinsular and mixed crises are distinguished. Mild crises are characterized by monosymptomatic manifestations, occur with pronounced vegetative changes, and last 10-15 minutes. Crises of moderate severity have polysymptomatic manifestations, pronounced vegetative changes and last from 15 to 20 minutes. Severe crises are manifested by polysymptoms, severe autonomic disorders, hyperkinesis, convulsions, attacks lasting more than one hour and post-crisis asthenia for several days.

Symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia

The manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia are diverse, which is due to the multifaceted influence on the body of the ANS, which regulates basic vegetative functions - breathing, blood supply, sweating, urination, digestion, etc. Symptoms of vegetative dysfunction can be expressed constantly or manifested by attacks, crises (panic attacks, fainting, other paroxysmal conditions).

There are several groups of symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia based on predominant activity disorders various systems body. These disorders can occur in isolation or in combination with each other. Cardiac manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia include pain in the heart area, tachycardia, a feeling of interruptions and fading in the heart.

For dysregulation respiratory system Vegetative-vascular dystonia is manifested by respiratory symptoms: rapid breathing (tachypnea), inability to take a deep breath and exhale completely, sensations of lack of air, heaviness, congestion in the chest, sharp paroxysmal shortness of breath, reminiscent of asthmatic attacks. Vegetative-vascular dystonia can be manifested by various dysdynamic disorders: fluctuations in venous and blood pressure, impaired blood and lymph circulation in tissues.

Autonomic thermoregulation disorders include lability of body temperature (increase to 37-38°C or decrease to 35°C), feelings of chilliness or a feeling of heat, sweating. The manifestation of thermoregulatory disorders can be short-term, long-term or permanent. A disorder of the autonomic regulation of digestive function is expressed by dyspeptic disorders: pain and cramps in the abdomen, nausea, belching, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia can cause various types of genitourinary disorders: anorgasmia with preserved sexual desire; painful, frequent urination in the absence of organic pathology of the urinary tract, etc. Psycho-neurological manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia include lethargy, weakness, fatigue with little exertion, decreased performance, increased irritability and tearfulness. Patients suffer from headaches, weather dependence, and sleep disorders (insomnia, shallow and restless sleep).

Complications of vegetative-vascular dystonia

The course of vegetative-vascular dystonia can be complicated by autonomic crises, which occur in more than half of patients. Depending on the predominance of disorders in one or another part of the autonomic system, sympathoadrenal, vagoinsular and mixed crises are distinguished.

The development of a sympathoadrenal crisis or “panic attack” occurs under the influence of a sharp release of adrenaline into the blood, occurring at the command of the autonomic system. The course of the crisis begins with a sudden headache, rapid heartbeat, cardialgia, paleness or redness of the face. Arterial hypertension is noted, the pulse quickens, low-grade fever, chill-like tremor, numbness of the extremities, and a feeling of severe anxiety and fear appear. The end of the crisis is as sudden as the beginning; after completion - asthenia, polyuria with the release of urine of low specific gravity.

Vagoinsular crisis manifests itself with symptoms that are largely opposite to the sympathetic effects. Its development is accompanied by the release of insulin into the blood, a sharp decrease in glucose levels, and an increase in the activity of the digestive system. Vagoinsular crisis is characterized by sensations of cardiac arrest, dizziness, arrhythmia, difficulty breathing and a feeling of lack of air. There is a slowdown in heart rate and decreased blood pressure, sweating, flushed skin, weakness, and darkening of the eyes.

During a crisis, intestinal motility increases, flatulence, rumbling, the urge to defecate appear, and loose stools are possible. At the end of the attack, a state of severe post-crisis asthenia occurs. Mixed sympathetic-parasympathetic crises, characterized by activation of both parts of the autonomic nervous system, are more common.

Diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Diagnosing vegetative-vascular dystonia is difficult due to the variety of symptoms and the lack of clear objective parameters. In the case of vegetative-vascular dystonia, we can rather talk about differential diagnosis and exclusion of organic pathology of a particular system. To do this, patients undergo consultation with a neurologist, endocrinologist and examination by a cardiologist.

When clarifying the medical history, it is necessary to establish a family history of autonomic dysfunction. In patients with vagotonia, cases of gastric ulcer, bronchial asthma, and neurodermatitis are more common in the family; with sympathicotonia - hypertension, ischemic heart disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus. In children with vegetative-vascular dystonia, the anamnesis is often burdened by an unfavorable course of the perinatal period, recurrent acute and chronic focal infections.

When diagnosing vegetative-vascular dystonia, it is necessary to assess the initial autonomic tone and indicators autonomic reactivity. The initial state of the ANS is assessed at rest by analyzing complaints, EEG of the brain and ECG. Autonomic reactions of the nervous system are determined using various functional tests (orthostatic, pharmacological).

Treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Patients with vegetative-vascular dystonia are treated under the supervision of a general practitioner, neurologist, endocrinologist or psychiatrist, depending on the predominant manifestations of the syndrome. For vegetative-vascular dystonia, complex, long-term, individual therapy is carried out, taking into account the nature of autonomic dysfunction and its etiology.

Preference in choosing treatment methods is given to a non-drug approach: normalization of work and rest, elimination of physical inactivity, dosed physical activity, limitation of emotional influences (stress, computer games, watching TV shows), individual and family psychological correction, rational and regular nutrition.

A positive result in the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia is observed from therapeutic massage, reflexology, and water procedures. The physiotherapeutic effect used depends on the type of autonomic dysfunction: for vagotonia, electrophoresis with calcium, mesatone, and caffeine is indicated; for sympathicotonia - with papaverine, aminophylline, bromine, magnesium).

If general strengthening and physiotherapeutic measures are insufficient, individually selected drug therapy is prescribed. To reduce the activity of vegetative reactions, sedatives (valerian, motherwort, St. John's wort, lemon balm, etc.), antidepressants, tranquilizers, and nootropic drugs are prescribed. Favorable healing effect Glycine, hopantenic acid, glutamic acid, and complex vitamin-mineral preparations often provide relief.

To reduce the manifestations of sympathicotonia, β-blockers (propranolol, anaprilin) ​​are used, and herbal psychostimulants (schizandra, eleutherococcus, etc.) are used for vagotonic effects. In case of vegetative-vascular dystonia, chronic foci of infection accompanied by endocrine, somatic or other pathology are treated.

The development of severe vegetative crises in some cases may require parenteral administration of antipsychotics, tranquilizers, β-blockers, atropine (depending on the form of the crisis). Patients with vegetative-vascular dystonia should be regularly monitored (once every 3-6 months), especially in the autumn-spring period, when the complex of treatment measures must be repeated.

Forecast and prevention of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Timely detection and treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia and its consistent prevention in 80-90% of cases lead to the disappearance or significant reduction of many manifestations and restoration of the body's adaptive capabilities. The uncorrected course of vegetative-vascular dystonia contributes to the formation of various psychosomatic disorders, psychological and physical maladjustment of patients, and adversely affects their quality of life.

A set of measures to prevent vegetative-vascular dystonia should be aimed at strengthening the self-regulation mechanisms of the nervous system and increasing the adaptive abilities of the body. This is achieved through improving lifestyle, optimizing rest, work and physical activity. Prevention of exacerbations of vegetative-vascular dystonia is carried out using its rational therapy.