The complex task of maintaining a stable internal environment and respond appropriately to changes that take place in the external surroundings is directed by the autonomic nervous system. It manages most of our bodily systems, including cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal, urinary and bowel functions, temperature regulation, reproduction and our metabolic and endocrine systems. This system is also responsible for our reaction to stress- the flight and fight response. This condition afflicts over 500,000 Americans and is the least understood of the autonomic disorders. Mitral valve prolapse falls under this category.
Onset can be sudden and the impact significant to both lifestyle and the capacity to work.
Due to the nature of the symptoms, the condition is often misdiagnosed as psychiatric or anxiety related disorders. There is an inappropriate response when there is a change in body positioning . There is an excessive increase in the heart rate upon standing, resulting in the cardiovascular system working harder to maintain blood pressure and blood flow to the brain. There is an decrease in blood pressure whereas the general population has a increase upon standing. For many, symptoms may be short lived, while others show a progressive nature and a worsening of symptoms may occur.