I know that MS can effect the autonomic nervous system (ANS). I was also doing some reading the other day that some of the ANS is located in the T-spine.
Would a lesion in the T-spine also cause ANS dysfunction in those controls?
I guess simply put..I've had several episodes when I've gotten overheated that's had a direct effect on my blood pressure (at least I think so). I go pale, my vision goes dim and speckled (similar to looking through a TV station that isn't coming in good), and my legs are weak. I also feel faint or really sleepy. When I try to stand, things go from bad to worse. It isn't until I cool off that things go back to normal.
I've also had other symptoms as well..nausea, stomach cramps, cold clammy sweat, my heart rate will increase, my respiratory will feel funny..just to name a few. When I was looking up info about the ANS because of my recent episode, all these controls seemed to be located in the T-spine...so maybe there is an issue there? IDK but with my recent positive SSEP I'm beginning to wonder. Am I thinking correctly? Would it effect things like this because of Uhthoff's?
I also have bladder involvement as well. I've read that when you sleep at night your brain slows down the production of urine. I've had episodes to waking up to urinating on myself. I didn't even know what was happening. I just realized that..oh heck...I need to get to the bathroom before I make a mess. This always occurs within 3-4 hours after going to sleep. The thing is, I always use the restroom before going to bed, so why would I be loosing my urine so shortly after going to bed? Could this be related to ANS dysfunction as well?
Can anyone explain how MS can cause ANS dysfunction and how would a doctor know if this was occurring?
Curious :)