10/08/2025
The Autonomic Nervous System is the key to recovering from chronic illnesses of all types.
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls involuntary bodily functions. It regulates processes such as hormones, relaxation, GI function, heart rate, digestion, respiratory rate, pupil dilation, sleep and blood pressure. The ANS is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The sympathetic system prepares the body for “fight or flight” responses, increasing heart rate and energy availability. The parasympathetic system promotes “rest and digest” functions, slowing the heart rate and enhancing digestion. Together, these systems maintain homeostasis (balance) by automatically adjusting internal processes without conscious effort.
Chronic illness can significantly affect the autonomic nervous system (ANS), often leading to a condition known as dysautonomia, or autonomic dysfunction.
Symptoms of dysautonomia:
Fatigue and chronic tiredness
Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing (orthostatic intolerance)
Fainting or near-fainting episodes
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Rapid or irregular heart rate (tachycardia or palpitations)
Low blood pressure (especially when standing)
Shortness of breath
Chest pain or discomfort
Nausea, vomiting, or other gastrointestinal issues
Abdominal Pain, Constipation or diarrhea
Sweating abnormalities (too much or too little)
Temperature regulation issues (feeling too hot or cold)
Urinary problems (urgency or incontinence)
Sexual dysfunction
Visual disturbances (blurry vision, tunnel vision)
Sleep disturbances
Pain burning , tingling, neuropathy
Headahces and Migraines
Muscle and Joint Pain
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) pain is disproportionate to injury with swelling, change of colore and temperature
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Wishing you good health,
Dr. Steven Zodkoy
732-308-0099
Director of Monmouth Advanced Medicine
Cofounder of the Resiliency Program LLC
Author of Misdiagnosed: The Adrenal Fatigue Link
