Originally Posted by Starburst

Hello,

You know me (crashdoll).

Autonomic Neuropathy is not difficult to diagnose if you get tests for the symptoms. So, it should be something that is relatively easily e.g. yes or no, no shades of grey as much as other conditions. Orthostatic hypotension and/or PoTS can be easily ruled in or out with a decent blood pressure machine. I know you seem concerned about AN but having followed your journey for a while, you issue don't sound like other people I 'know' on social media, particularly with regards to the balance issues you describe. It seems to be the positional changes that cause real issues and trigger off the diagnosis, particularly in people who are younger. AN of the GI system is a bit more than constipation which is very common and not necessarily a sign of anything untoward. It's quite distinct and obvious if you have delayed gastric emptying, particularly if it's affecting other parts of the GI tract. It presents quite erm loudly...is the only word I can use to describe!

Anyway, a neurologist can diagnose if they have any concerns or send for tests, although the primary symptoms will dictate the first specialist you come across. For most people I know, they start with Gastroparesis and then are later diagnosed with the AN. Then again, I frequent the GP social media sites, so obviously their primary symptoms are gastro.

It's mostly about controlling the symptoms too. There isn't an overall treatment for AN because the symptoms and causes are so variable. So, even if it is going to take a while to see a neuro, you can still manage in primary care with your GP.

Take care. x