ICD-10 was introduced into healthcare practice throughout the Russian Federation in 1999 by order of the Russian Ministry of Health dated May 27, 1997. No. 170

The release of a new revision (ICD-11) is planned by WHO in 2017-2018.

With changes and additions from WHO.

Processing and translation of changes © mkb-10.com

Classification of vegetative-vascular dystonia according to ICD-10

What is the VSD code according to ICD-10? The doctor will answer this question. Vegetovascular dystonia and neurocirculatory dystonia according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) has a universal international code G90.8. Although, due to the absence of a specific focus, this disease belongs to the class of diseases of the nervous system, and specifically to the subblock “Other diseases and disorders of the nervous system” (according to ICD-10, the range of codes here is from G90 to G99). It has been proven that diseases of the central nervous system affect all systems of the body. Children and teenagers are especially susceptible to them, and after puberty the statistics go down.

International definition

The classic scientific definition of VSD is dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system when the functions of various body systems are impaired and there are no organic changes.

VSD symptoms are of mixed type. A disorder of the autonomic system leads to certain deviations in the functioning of the cardiovascular, digestive and nervous systems (such symptoms are characteristic of somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, the code of which, according to ICD-10, is F45.3, but this classification is conditional). Although the nature of the disease itself has not yet been sufficiently studied, and it is classified as difficult to diagnose.

There are classic symptoms of VSD:

1. Sudden pressure surges that are not justified in any way (critical readings can be both at the upper and lower levels).
2. Irregular heartbeat (usually accompanied by nosebleeds and decreased temperature of the extremities).
3. Sleep disturbance (most often this is insomnia, which can be overcome with the help of potent drugs or alcohol).
4. Headache.
5. Constant weakness (reluctance to work, apathy, lethargy, drowsiness during the day).
6. Mood swings, aggressiveness, nervousness.
7. Problems with vision and hearing.
8. Memory impairment.
9. Digestive problems (diarrhea, constipation, causeless vomiting, constant nausea).
10. Panic attacks.
11. Intolerance to extreme heat or extreme cold.
12. Pathological attacks of suffocation, shortness of breath.
13. Hiccups.
14. Sexual disorders are possible.

All these symptoms are quite conditional. Symptoms can be combined (VSD of mixed type), periodically disappear and return again. In many ways, the nature of the course of the disease depends on the person’s age, his character and the presence or absence of chronic diseases. The hypertensive type of VSD is, in addition, characterized by disruptions in the functioning of the heart, severe pain in the sternum, and sweating.

Types of VSD

Based on certain typical symptoms, VSD is divided into the following types.

1. Cardiological type of VSD or neurocirculatory dystonia. With this type of disease, the pain is localized in the chest area, on the left side. This can be noticeable lumbago, tingling, or simply very strong, aching pain that appears at any time of the day or night, even when the threshold for physical activity (or peak physical activity) is not exceeded. NCD is the most serious type of disease, the treatment of which is associated with certain difficulties.
2. Bradycardic type of VSD. This type of disease most often occurs in young people. The main cause of the disease is an unreasonable decrease in the frequency of heart contractions, which in turn leads to a decrease in oxygen saturation of the brain. The result is lethargy, apathy, a constant feeling of fatigue, depression, and in especially severe cases, the inability to carry out any meaningful actions.
3. Arrhythmic type of VSD. This disease manifests itself in constant and unpredictable surges in blood pressure, accompanied by clouding of consciousness, a feeling of lightheadedness, dizziness, and weakness. This type of disease is typical for those who have certain problems with blood vessels and the spine.

Experts distinguish between VSD of the hypertensive type (most often develops in people leading a sedentary lifestyle) and VSD of the hypotonic type (a small child may suffer from this type of disease; it manifests itself in the form of low blood pressure). According to ICD-10, diagnoses most often made are hypertension (arterial hypertension) with code I10-I15.

What are the causes of the disease?

Causes of vegetative-vascular dystonia. According to statistics, those at risk (people who are susceptible to vegetative-vascular disorders) are those who lead an incorrect, unhealthy lifestyle:

• spend little time outdoors;
• experience constant stress at work;
• work in hazardous work or are engaged in heavy physical labor.

An unhealthy lifestyle leads to a decrease in immunity, weakens the body and natural, genetic barriers.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia (ICD-10 code G90.8) of various types develops for the following reasons:

1. Prolonged stay in a state of nervous tension. It may be associated with responsible work or personal troubles, but this leads to a malfunction of the internal organs.
2. Chronic lack of sleep. There are a lot of reasons for sleep disturbances, but if you don’t give your brain proper rest for a long time, then certain coordination failures occur in its work.
3. Diseases of the back and spine. Osteochondrosis and scoliosis are those problems that lead to a malfunction of the central nervous system, and therefore to malfunctions of almost all internal organs.
4. Poor nutrition. Firstly, poor nutrition leads to an imbalance of vitamins and microelements in the body, which in turn leads to a malfunction of many internal organs and the central nervous system. And secondly, poor nutrition can lead to obesity, and excess weight affects the functioning of the heart muscle. All this leads to the development of VSD.
5. Injuries of any kind, especially the spine and head, lead to disruption of the autonomic nervous system and the development of VSD.
6. Sedentary lifestyle. Lack of regular exercise leads to weakening of the heart muscle and failure of all internal organs.
7. Hormonal changes. At risk are teenagers, women during pregnancy and menopause, and people suffering from diseases of the thyroid gland and liver. Ovarian dysfunction in women can cause the development of NCD.
8. Genetic predisposition. Typically, VSD develops in children if the mother led an unhealthy lifestyle during pregnancy or was under severe stress.

There is no way to determine the cause of VSD on your own. But if the above symptoms become chronic, you should immediately consult a doctor and insist on a detailed diagnosis.

Diagnostic work of a doctor. A general practitioner cannot independently diagnose VSD; he must not only conduct various tests, but also involve various specialists for consultation. Although a certain algorithm of actions can be outlined.

Conducting an interview with the patient: the doctor must understand the possible causes and history of the disease, the intensity of the symptoms.

Examination: changes in skin color and poor posture can tell a specialist a lot about what pathological processes are occurring in the patient’s body.

Carrying out an ECG (to rule out problems in the heart or, conversely, to identify them).

Rheovasography is the study of the filling of blood vessels.

Consultations with specialized specialists to identify deviations in the functioning of body systems and in the functioning of the nervous system.

Only after all the research and consultations have been carried out can the patient be diagnosed and given the correct treatment.

Treatment methods

Treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia. It is necessary to carry out complex, systematic treatment in order to cope with internal and external factors that provoke the appearance of VSD:

1. The doctor must definitely recommend normalizing the work and rest schedule: a person with VSD should sleep at least 8 hours a day.
2. Prescribe physical therapy: gymnastics, swimming or exercise on a treadmill or exercise bike are perfect.
3. Recommend consultation with a nutritionist who will help bring your nutrition system back to normal.
4. Prescribe sedatives.
5. Force you to give up bad habits or explain the direct dependence of the worsening condition on drinking alcohol and smoking.
6. Schedule a consultation with a psychologist.
7. Prescription of vitamin complexes.

The doctor will have to carry out comprehensive treatment of all chronic diseases, eliminate all infectious foci in the body in order to prevent the development of VSD.

Prevention measures

To prevent the disease, it is necessary to undergo medical examination once a year. Visit special resorts and sanatoriums. If a relapse occurs, you must consult a doctor, since advanced VSD of any type can lead to the development of other diseases (for example, gastritis, bronchial asthma).

Code of vegetative-vascular dystonia according to ICD-10

Vegetovascular dystonia (VSD) is a syndrome characterizing autonomic dysfunction. This pathology refers to diseases of the nervous system. Due to the lack of a specific cause and vague symptoms, VSD according to ICD-10 does not have a specific classification and is designated as G90.8. Thus, ICD-10 characterizes vegetative-vascular dystonia as one of the disorders of the nervous system, but not as an independent disease.

Reasons for violation

Pathology manifests itself as a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system. This disease occurs in approximately every third adult, regardless of place of residence and age. Autonomic dysfunction in children occurs in approximately 30%. As a rule, the first symptoms appear in childhood or adolescence.

The disease is characterized by malfunctions of internal organs. Reasons for the development of VSD:

• emotional and physical stress;
• hormone imbalance;
• stressful situations;
• diseases of the endocrine system;
• bad habits;
• infectious diseases;
• lack of vitamins;
• passive lifestyle.

Often, the first manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia appear after suffering diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) or mental disorders. The body develops defense mechanisms against diseases of the nervous system, therefore, at the slightest stress or overwork, these mechanisms are activated and symptoms of dystonia appear. This response of the immune system is developed after neurological and mental disorders, as well as infectious and viral diseases.

The impetus for a disorder of autonomic function can be poor nutrition, lack of regular physical activity, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

Autonomic dysfunction develops with hormonal imbalances, during pregnancy and at the onset of menopause. Pathology may appear against the background of diseases of the cervical spine or diabetes mellitus.

The development of the syndrome is also influenced by genetic predisposition. Bad habits, such as smoking and alcohol abuse, also provoke disorders of the autonomic nervous system.

Vegetovascular dystonia is a syndrome that describes autonomic disorders. There are several types of VSD. Dystonia is distinguished:

• hypotonic type;
• hypertensive type;
• cardiac type;
• mixed type.

Each type of disease has characteristic symptoms.

VSD hypotonic type

VSD of the hypotonic type manifests itself at an early age, and predominantly women suffer from the disease. The disorder develops against the background of low blood pressure (100 mmHg and below). Symptoms of the disorder are nonspecific and manifest themselves individually in each patient. The following symptoms are common:

• limb spasms;
• heart rhythm disturbance;
• breathing problems;
• headache;
• fainting;
• Digestive problems.

Patients complain of cramps of the lower extremities, especially at night. Hands and feet feel cold even in hot weather. Heart rhythm disturbances may occur, especially after minor physical activity. Breathing problems are expressed by difficulty taking a deep breath. Breathing is usually shallow and rapid. Patients often complain of headaches and dizziness.

Digestive problems are expressed by diarrhea, frequent heartburn, and impaired bowel movements.

Some patients report neuropsychiatric disorders - panic attacks, attacks of fear, sudden irritability or depression. VSD is often accompanied by sleep disturbances, constant fatigue and apathy.

This form of vegetative-vascular dystonia does not have a code according to ICD 10 due to the general nature of the symptoms. This also causes problems with diagnosing the disorder.

Hypertensive type of disorder

VSD of the hypertensive type, as the name implies, develops against a background of high blood pressure. As a rule, symptoms of pathology appear when the patient’s blood pressure rises.

This form of the disease is characterized by the following symptoms:

• noise in ears;
• headache;
• visual impairment;
• nervous tension;
• tremor of fingers;
• problems with coordination of movements;
• panic attacks;
• nausea;
• impaired memory and concentration.

Tinnitus is accompanied by visual impairment. Patients complain of the appearance of floaters in the field of vision. All this is associated with increased blood pressure. Patients often complain of nervousness, nervous tension, and sudden anxiety. These symptoms may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Some patients have problems with coordination of movements - a rapid, fussy gait. Possible problems with concentration and sudden memory loss.

This form of disorder leads to disability due to problems with attention and memory.

Due to the lack of clear symptoms, no ICD-10 code has been assigned for this type of VSD. ICD-10 classifies vegetative-vascular dystonia as a general neurological disorder.

Cardiac type of disorder

Cardiac vegetative-vascular disorders develop against the background of cardiovascular problems or as a result of metabolic disorders and endocrinological diseases. The disease is characterized by cardiac, tachycardic or bradycardic syndrome, the symptoms of which do not appear simultaneously.

The most common is cardiac syndrome; it occurs in nine cases out of ten among patients with cardiac VSD. In this case, patients complain of nagging pain and discomfort in the heart area.

• Tachycardia syndrome is manifested by an increase in heart rate, as well as a decrease in performance.
• Bradycardia syndrome is characterized by a decrease in heart rate and sudden headaches. Patients often complain of severe sweating and lightheadedness.

According to ICD-10, vegetative-vascular dystonia of this type is not classified; the international classifier classifies this type of disorder as a neurological disorder.

Mixed type of pathology

Mixed vegetative-vascular dystonia is often a hereditary disease. Pathology may appear against the background of problems of the cardiovascular system and as a result of certain neurological disorders.

VSD of mixed type is characterized by the following symptoms:

• headache and dizziness;
• change in heart rate;
• visual impairment;
• aching pain in the heart area;
• panic attacks;
• nervous tension;
• vegetative crises.

This form of pathology is characterized by a sudden change in blood pressure; it can rise sharply or suddenly fall, which causes the symptoms of the disorder.

The mixed type of autonomic disorder is characterized by crises, which are accompanied by impaired motor skills, sudden chills and tremor of the fingers. Patients report sudden visual disturbances (blurring in the eyes), decreased hearing (noise or ringing in the ears), and problems with speech.

The second name for VSD is neurocirculatory dystonia or NCD. According to ICD-10, neurocirculatory dystonia is classified as a neurological disorder.

Somatoform dysfunction

One form of dystonia is somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. Pathology is characterized by disruption of the functioning of internal organs without a physiological or pathological cause for the disorder.

Somatoform dysfunction manifests itself at an early age in children and adolescents. The disorder affects those organs whose activity is regulated by the autonomic nervous system.

The following symptoms are characteristic of somatoform dysfunction:

• aching pain in the heart area;
• arrhythmia;
• shortness of breath, difficulty breathing;
• dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract;
• problems with urination;
• joint pain;
• neurological and mental disorders.

Pain in the heart area bothers the patient at rest or during physical activity. Patients often complain of arrhythmia. Possible breathing problems - shortness of breath, rapid shallow breathing, inability to take a deep breath.

From the gastrointestinal tract, indigestion, constipation or diarrhea may occur. Often a child experiences sudden stomach upset during a stressful situation.

Urinary problems mainly affect children. This is manifested by enuresis and frequent urge to urinate when in public.

Joint pain is episodic. They suddenly appear, intensify with load, and just as suddenly disappear.

Patients are prone to hypochondria and the development of depression. Many people note sleep disorders, groundless fears and anxieties, and suddenly increasing irritability and nervousness.

Diagnosis of pathology

Diagnosis of VSD is fraught with difficulties due to the lack of specific symptoms. Signs of vegetative-vascular dystonia are characteristic of many different pathologies of the cardiovascular system, internal organs, as well as some types of mental disorders.

To make a diagnosis, it is important to exclude pathologies of internal organs. For this purpose, examination and consultation with a cardiologist, endocrinologist, neurologist and gastroenterologist are indicated.

The following examinations need to be done:

• general and biochemical blood test;
• checking brain activity and vascular condition;
• MRI of internal organs.

If you suspect VSD, you should consult a therapist. After examining and analyzing the patient’s complaints, the doctor will refer you to the next specialist.

Treatment

Regardless of the type of dystonia, treatment is carried out symptomatically. If a patient experiences sudden changes in blood pressure, he is prescribed medications to normalize these indicators. Medicines are also prescribed to improve blood flow to the brain.

Antidepressants and tranquilizers are used to treat dystonia. Sedatives are often prescribed. This helps relieve nervous tension and normalize patients’ sleep at night, as well as get rid of neurosis and irritability.

Patients are advised to take vitamin and mineral complexes to strengthen the nervous system. Usually medications containing magnesium and B vitamins are prescribed.

Along with drug treatment, it is necessary to adhere to a diet and daily routine.

With the hypotonic type of disorder, frequent meals are indicated, but in small portions. Preference should be given to products containing vitamin C, which normalizes vascular tone. The menu should predominantly consist of fresh fruits and vegetables. For the hypotonic type, natural coffee and green tea are indicated.

If you have a hypertensive type of VSD, you should exclude fatty meats and rich broths from the menu, increase the amount of fluid consumed to two liters per day, and also give up coffee and salt.

Smoking and drinking alcohol aggravate the course of the disease and contribute to the deterioration of well-being, so bad habits should be abandoned.

To get rid of VSD you will need long-term complex treatment. It is important to adhere to the following rules.

1. Daily walks in the fresh air have a positive effect on the nervous system. Walking for at least two hours a day is recommended.
2. Patients are advised to have moderate physical activity. This could be yoga, cycling or swimming.
3. It is important for patients to be able to relax. To do this, it is recommended to master breathing techniques.
4. The working day should be standardized. You should get at least eight hours of sleep a day.

VSD is not a fatal disease, but it can significantly impair the quality of life. This pathology leads to decreased ability to work and neurological disorders, so it needs to be treated. A timely visit to a doctor will help you get rid of unpleasant symptoms in literally 4-5 weeks, so you should not delay treatment.

VSD codes in ICD 10

Basic VSD codes in the ICD

The diagnosis of “vegetative-vascular dystonia” is made only in our country - ICD-10 does not distinguish VSD as a separate disease. Therefore, the alphanumeric designation of the disease is selected based on the prevailing symptoms of VSD and disorders identified during diagnosis.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia is designated by a code in the range G00-G99. These numbers indicate pathologies of the nervous system. For example, a disease can be encrypted:

• G99.0* - autonomic neuropathy with endocrine and metabolic disorders;
• G99.1* - includes other disorders of the autonomic nervous system occurring against the background of concomitant diseases;
• G99.8* - denotes specified disorders of the nervous system in diseases classified in other headings.

VSD according to ICD-10 may have the code R45, which indicates symptoms related to the emotional sphere of a person.

• Diagnosis is often coded under R45.8, which stands for Other Symptoms and Signs Relating to Emotional State.
• Code F45.3 is used primarily by neuropsychiatrists. Alphanumeric coding determines changes in well-being in adult patients with a symptom complex of disorders characteristic of somatoform dysfunction of the ANS.

When assigning a disease code, the type of VSD is also taken into account - hypertensive, hypotensive or mixed nature of the syndrome.

Codes for hypertensive form of dystonia

The hypertensive variant of VSD is characterized by a periodic increase in blood pressure. Hypertension manifests itself:

• discomfort;
• severe headaches;
• nausea;
• loss of strength.

The code is selected based on the development of hypertension:

• Code I10 indicates primary hypertension. The patient has not been diagnosed with organic pathologies that can cause pressure surges.
• Code I15 is used if hypertension in VSD is secondary and develops against the background of some pathology.

The main ICD-10 code may be supplemented by others depending on concomitant VSD diseases.

Codes for hypotensive form of dystonia

Hypotension in dystonia manifests itself:

During an acute attack of arterial hypotension, the following symptoms appear:

• darkening before the eyes;
• unsteadiness and uncertainty of gait;
• severe dizziness;
• fainting (in severe cases).

The hypotonic type of VSD is most often referred to as code F45.3, which denotes somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. The disease is also encrypted with codes:

• I95.0 - idiopathic hypotension;
• I95.1 – orthostatic hypotension that occurs when standing up;
• I95.8 – other types of hypotension;
• I95.9 – hypotension of unspecified etiology.

To select the correct section in the international classification of diseases, the doctor carefully collects anamnesis, determines the mechanism of development of the disease and determines the influence of organic pathologies.

Neurocirculatory dystonia (NCD) is encrypted in the international classification of diseases with code F45.3. This designates somatoform dysfunctions that occur with episodes of heart rhythm disturbances and blood pressure instability.

How codes are set for children with VSD

Identification of disease codes according to the ICD in children is no different from encoding diagnoses in adult patients. The development of dystonia in a child may be associated with:

In this case, VSD is a secondary pathology, so the alphanumeric designation of the primary disease is indicated first. Dystonia developing in a child is coded by a pediatric neurologist.

The International Classification of Diseases is a document approved by the World Health Organization. According to generally accepted regulations, certified doctors treating private and public medical institutions are required to use the specified disease encryption standards in their practice.

The use of ICD codes is important not only for studying the characteristics of pathologies and determining the frequency of their detection. Thanks to universal disease coding, patients do not have to worry about how they will communicate their diagnosis to doctors who do not speak their language.

Autonomic dysfunction syndrome

What is autonomic dysfunction syndrome (ADS)? The very word “syndrome” reminds us that this is not a disease, but a certain set of symptoms that arises in the presence of certain pathological processes in the body. “Dysfunction” means disruption of the functioning, proper functioning of an organ or system. In this case we are talking about the autonomic nervous system, which is one of the departments of the body’s nervous system.

ICD-10 code

Epidemiology

Vegetovascular dystonia is a fairly common condition. About 80% of the adult population have a confirmed diagnosis of VSD, while the number of women with this diagnosis significantly exceeds the number of men with the same problem.

But autonomic dysfunction syndrome cannot be considered a purely adult pathology. The first signs of ANS pathology can be noticed in childhood, and clinical manifestations of dysfunction are observed already in adulthood and older.

Epidemiological studies of school-age children have shown that only 10% of children and adolescents have no complaints about the functioning of the body's autonomic system. In various regions, the number of schoolchildren who are likely to be diagnosed with autonomic dysfunction ranges from 50% to 65%, and this is a reason to seriously think about the problem and the reasons for its occurrence.

Causes of autonomic dysfunction syndrome

Autonomic dysfunction syndrome is known to many of us as vegetative-vascular dystonia (VSD). Doctors have not yet been able to accurately establish all the causes of this condition, but there is no doubt that the following factors are involved in the appearance of VSD:

• Heredity (the likelihood of a disease occurring in a person whose relatives had or have such a diagnosis is 20% higher than in other people in whose family this was not observed).
• Birth injuries and maternal pregnancy, which occurs with complications, can cause VSD in the child.
• Weak motor activity since childhood.
• Tense psycho-emotional state at work and in the family for a long time.
• Systematic overwork, both mental and physical.
• Constant stress at work and at home, nervous tension.
• Premenstrual syndrome and urolithiasis can also cause the development of VSD, since systematic irritation of the peripheral parts of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) occurs.

Risk factors

Risk factors for VSD may also include:

• Traumatic brain injuries and tumors affecting the subcortical structures of the brain.
• Hormonal imbalance during the development of certain diseases of the endocrine system, as well as during pregnancy, menstruation and menopause in women.
• Various infectious diseases with the occurrence of focal lesions.
• Short-term overexertion of strength and mind.
• Various intoxications (poisonings) of the body in everyday life and at work.
• Various operations, especially with the use of anesthesia.
• Too much or too little body weight.
• Violations of the daily routine with insufficient time for the body to rest.
• Having bad habits.
• Moving or temporarily staying in an area with a different climate (unusual humidity and air temperature, as well as shifting sleep and wakefulness times).
• Osteochondrosis of the spine in any of its manifestations.

Pathogenesis

The autonomic nervous system, which is sometimes also called the visceral, ganglion or autonomic nervous system, performs a regulatory function for all organs, glands and blood vessels. Thanks to it, the constancy of the internal environment of our body and reactions are maintained, allowing us to navigate well and adapt to the environment.

When the autonomic system is dysfunctional, organs and vessels lose the ability to respond correctly to signals supplied by the body or coming from outside. The vessels begin to either expand or contract for no particular reason, which causes discomfort and deterioration in well-being. A thorough examination in this case does not reveal any serious pathologies in the body, and all unpleasant sensations can only be associated with improper functioning of the autonomic nervous system.

Sometimes SVD is called somatoform autonomic dysfunction syndrome. This is due to the peculiarities of its manifestations, when neuropsychic reactions cause very real physical sensations.

The development of the pathological process is facilitated by the body’s weak resistance to stressful situations, as a result of which the normal functioning of the self-regulation system is disrupted, i.e. autonomic nervous system. Hereditary factors plus certain external conditions can affect nervous regulation in the body, which leads to the appearance of numerous symptoms of VSD.

Despite the fact that the state of autonomic dysfunction itself is generally not dangerous, it causes a lot of unpleasant sensations that negatively affect a person’s quality of life and the ability to fully engage in work.

Symptoms of autonomic dysfunction syndrome

Autonomic dysfunction syndrome is a condition of the body characterized by multiple and varied symptoms affecting various body systems. According to various sources, you can find about 150 different symptoms and around 32 syndromes of clinically manifested disorders in the body, indicating VSD.

The most common symptoms of VSD are: dizziness and headache, hyperhidrosis (increased sweating) of the palms and feet, frequent urge to urinate not associated with diseases of the genitourinary system, a slight increase in temperature for no reason, fever. In addition: disorders in the sexual sphere, increased heart rate, unreasonable fear, states close to fainting, pallor of the skin, jumps in blood pressure, apparent lack of air due to insufficient inhalation. And also from the gastrointestinal tract: nausea, frequent belching, problems with stool (diarrhea), seething in the stomach, etc.

Autonomic dysfunction syndrome often occurs with vasospasms. Angiospasm is compression of cerebral vessels and peripheral vessels in the extremities. They are often accompanied by headaches due to a feeling of compression or pressure on the temples, frontal part or back of the head. The appearance of such pain is associated with sudden bending, changes in weather conditions, lowering blood pressure and sleep disturbances.

The most common syndromes accompanying VSD:

• Cardiovascular, or cardiovascular, syndrome (pallor of the skin, surges in blood pressure, heart rhythm disturbances, etc.)
• Respiratory, or hyperventilation, syndrome (difficulty in breathing, apparent lack of oxygen, chest pressure, etc.)
• Syndrome of mental disorders (fear, anxiety, insomnia, etc.)
• Asthenic syndrome (fatigue, incomprehensible weakness, sensitivity to weather changes, etc.)
• Syndrome of cerebrovascular disorders (head pain and dizziness, tinnitus, fainting).
• Neurogastric syndrome (unexplained pain in the stomach, feeling of heartburn, difficulty swallowing liquid food, constipation, etc.).

The symptoms of VSD are so broad that it is simply impossible to describe all its manifestations, but based on the symptoms given, certain conclusions can be drawn about the possibility of developing autonomic disorders in a particular case.

Features of the manifestation of autonomic dysfunction syndrome in people of different ages

Autonomic dysfunction syndrome in children and newborns can be a consequence of abnormal pregnancy and birth lesions, and can also be genetically determined. Oxygen starvation of the fetal brain during an unfavorable course of pregnancy and childbirth, as well as birth injuries and diseases that occur in the first days of a baby’s life, can negatively affect the development and functioning of the ANS. Autonomic disorders in such children most often affect the digestive (accumulation of gases in the intestines, frequent regurgitation and belching, lack of good appetite) and immune (frequent colds) systems of the body, and also manifest themselves in the form of frequent whims and the conflicting nature of the child.

Autonomic dysfunction syndrome continues and develops in adolescents during puberty. Active changes in the functioning of internal organs at this age occur faster than the body’s adaptation to these changes and the formation of neuroregulation of these processes. This is what is associated with the emergence of new symptoms, such as periodic pain in the heart area, frequent dizziness and headaches, fatigue, nervousness and anxiety, deterioration of attention and memory, surges or persistently elevated blood pressure values.

In adults, autonomic dysfunction syndrome has a slightly different course, since the disturbance of nervous regulation is accompanied by aggravated chronic diseases of the nervous, digestive, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems with their own symptoms. Plus additional hormonal surges associated with bearing a child (pregnancy and childbirth) and the end of childbearing age (menopause).

Stages

During vegetative-vascular dystonia there are 2 stages:

• exacerbation, when the symptoms are expressed especially clearly and in all their diversity,
• remission - weakening or complete disappearance of the symptoms of the disease.

In its course, SVD can be permanent or paroxysmal. The permanent course of the disease is characterized by a smooth onset of symptoms, without their intensification or weakening. The syndrome of autonomic dysfunction with vaso-autonomic paroxysms occurs in the form of peculiar panic attacks, when the signs of autonomic disorders become more pronounced, but noticeably weaken.

Forms

Since VSD has a wide variety of symptoms associated with the functioning of various organs, and the symptoms of the condition may differ from person to person, in medical practice it has been customary to classify several types of the syndrome. Their names already give an idea of ​​the possible symptoms.

1. Autonomic dysfunction syndrome of the cardiac type is characterized by sensations associated with the work of the heart (tingling in the heart area or aching pain, heart rhythm disturbances, arrhythmias, increased sweating).
2. Autonomic dysfunction syndrome of the hypertensive type is characterized by increased blood pressure. It has the following symptoms: pain in the head, fog or flashing before the eyes, nausea with loss of appetite, sometimes vomiting, hyperhidrosis, nervous tension, fears. The same symptoms may indicate the presence of hypertension, but in this case the use of medications to eliminate them is not required. A good rest is usually enough.
3. Autonomic dysfunction syndrome of the hypotonic type manifests itself with symptoms of low blood pressure. Against the backdrop of a decrease in pressure, Domm. rt. Art. feelings of weakness and chills appear, the skin becomes pale with cold sweat, difficulty breathing and gastrointestinal disorders in the form of heartburn, nausea, and stool disorders appear. This type of autonomic dysfunction syndrome can occur with lipothymic states (a reaction close to fainting with a weakening pulse and decreased blood pressure).
4. The syndrome of autonomic dysfunction of the vagotonic type often makes itself felt in childhood in the form of fatigue, poor sleep and gastrointestinal disorders. In adulthood, these symptoms may include decreased blood pressure, breathing problems, slow heart rate, drooling, and coordination disorders.
5. Mixed type autonomic dysfunction syndrome is the most common type of VSD. It is characterized by symptoms of various types of autonomic disorders, plus some others, for example, erectile dysfunction in men, fainting and pre-fainting states, depression, etc.

This information is enough to make a definite diagnosis. But we must take into account that VSD is an insidious thing. Today some symptoms may prevail, but tomorrow your symptoms may change radically. Therefore, in any case, there is a need to contact a specialist if you notice at least some of the above symptoms.

Based on the characteristics of the causes causing somatoform autonomic disorder and their effect on different parts of the autonomic nervous system, one can distinguish:

• suprasegmental autonomic dysfunction syndrome and
• segmental disorder of the ANS.

The central department of the ANS has 2 subdivisions. Suprasegmental, or higher, autonomic centers are concentrated in the brain, and segmental (lower) centers are concentrated in the brain and spinal cord. Disorder of the latter is rare and can be caused by tumor processes, the presence of osteochondrosis of the spine, various infections and related brain diseases. All other causes of VSD are caused by suprasegmental autonomic disorders.

Complications and consequences

The danger of VSD is that its symptoms are similar to the manifestations of various pathological processes, such as migraine, osteochondrosis, heart attack, etc. This causes certain difficulties in diagnosing this condition. And an incorrect diagnosis can have unpleasant and, in some cases, very dangerous consequences.

One of the complications of SVD can be considered panic attacks, which are also called sympathoadrenal crises against the background of vegetative-vascular dystonia, since at this moment there is a large release of adrenaline into the blood. But adrenaline is not so safe, especially in large quantities. It is adrenaline that increases blood pressure and slows down the heart, being a common cause of arrhythmia.

A large surge of adrenaline stimulates the production of its opposite, norepinephrine, which ensures the process of inhibition after excitation due to adrenaline. Therefore, after a panic attack, a person feels tired and overwhelmed.

And finally, the prolonged release of adrenaline contributes to the depletion of the substance of the adrenal glands and leads to such a serious disease as adrenal insufficiency, which can provoke sudden cardiac arrest and death of the patient.

Another complication of VSD is vagoinsular crises with a significant release of insulin. This leads to a decrease in blood glucose levels, and the person begins to feel as if his heart is stopping and his pulse is slowing down. The patient develops significant weakness, darkening his eyes and breaking out in a cold sweat.

A large amount of insulin is just as dangerous as a lack of it. Insulin in excessive quantities increases blood pressure and clogs blood vessels, which impairs blood circulation and the supply of oxygen to organs and tissues of the body.

Such critical conditions, depending on the severity of the syndrome, can last from 10 minutes to 1 hour, and this should make you think about the consequences of such reactions of the body and consult a doctor in time for advice and treatment.

Perhaps the autonomic dysfunction syndrome itself does not entail any particular harm or danger to a person, but it can significantly spoil life. And not only negative feelings, but also such difficult-to-correct consequences of VSD, which begin in childhood, such as problems with adaptation and difficulties in learning and performing work activities.

Diagnosis of autonomic dysfunction syndrome

Since VDS is a multisymptomatic disease, and its manifestations can affect various organs and systems, which makes the syndrome similar in symptoms to some other diseases (osteochondrosis, myocardial infarction, central nervous system diseases, gastritis, etc.), diagnosing this condition can cause certain difficulties. And the doctor cannot make a mistake, since the health and even the life of the patient is at stake.

Therefore, to make a correct diagnosis, it is very important to exclude or confirm the presence of other serious diseases with similar symptoms. It is for this purpose that instrumental diagnostics are carried out, which may include the following procedures:

• electrocardiogram to rule out heart disease (performed at rest and after certain physical activities),
• electroencephalogram and Dopplerography will help exclude diseases of the blood vessels of the heart and brain,
• tomography of the head to identify brain diseases and various tumor processes,
• Ultrasound of various internal organs depending on symptoms,

In addition, to determine autonomic dysfunction syndrome, blood pressure and pulse measurements are taken, as well as biochemical tests of urine and blood.

Differential diagnosis

The final diagnosis is made on the basis of differential diagnosis, taking into account the indications of instrumental and laboratory examinations. Taking an anamnesis plays a very important role in the diagnosis of SVD, which is why it is very important to tell the doctor what symptoms are present, when they appeared and how they manifest themselves in various situations, which preceded the appearance of these symptoms.

Who to contact?

Treatment of autonomic dysfunction syndrome

Due to the extensive symptoms and variety of causes causing the syndrome, treatment of SVD is carried out in several areas:

• Stabilization of the patient’s psycho-emotional state (elimination of stress, removal of fears, etc.).
• Treatment of possible concomitant diseases.
• Removing the main symptoms of VSD
• Avoiding crises.

The approach to prescribing medications should be purely individual, taking into account all the patient’s symptoms and complaints. Neuroleptics, sedatives, nootropics, cardiovascular and other drugs can be used in the treatment of SVD.

• "Teraligen"- a complex drug that has a sedative, antiemetic, hypnotic, antitussive and other effects, which is simply irreplaceable in the treatment of VSD. The drug is indicated for use from 7 years of age.

Dosage and method of application. Adults, depending on the condition and the desired effect, are prescribed from 5 to 400 mg. per day, divided into 3-4 doses. For children, the drug is prescribed individually depending on age and body weight.

The drug has many side effects and contraindications, which must be familiarized with before starting to take the drug. Taking the drug excludes drinking alcohol during treatment and engaging in activities that require concentration.

• "Phenazepam"- a tranquilizer that has a sedative and hypnotic effect. It relieves nervous tension, neurosis-like and depressive states, as well as convulsive reactions. This drug is indispensable for vegetative crises.

Dosage and method of application. The daily dose of the drug is from 1.5 to 5 mg. Divide it 2-3 times. The morning and daytime norm is 0.5-1 mg, the evening norm is 2.5 mg. The dose may be increased according to the doctor's recommendation. Usually the course of treatment is 2 weeks, but can be extended up to 2 months.

Causes various side effects on the part of many systems and organs, not life-threatening, but unpleasant, as well as drug addiction. The drug is prescribed from the age of 18. Contraindications for use are pregnancy and lactation, shock conditions, glaucoma, respiratory failure, myasthenia gravis. Before starting treatment with the drug, you should consult your doctor about the possibility of using it in combination with other medications.

If the symptoms of SVD increase, and Phenazepam is not at hand, you can get by with the usual "Corvalbreaker", which is found in almost all home medicine cabinets and women's handbags. 50 drops dissolved in a small amount of water are enough to prevent the development of a vegetative crisis due to nervous overstrain.

If tranquilizers such as Phenazepam or Seduxen are insufficiently effective, especially in the case of the hypertensive type of SVD, drugs that effectively lower blood pressure and eliminate the symptoms of arrhythmia can be prescribed.

A prominent representative of this series of drugs is "Reserpine", eliminating psychotic conditions due to high blood pressure. Take the drug after meals, starting with a dose of 0.1 mg 1-2 times a day. Gradually the dosage is increased to 0.5 mg per day. The frequency of administration is also increased to 3-4 times a day.

Contraindications to the use of Reserpine may include hypersensitivity to the components, depression, slow heart rate (bradycardia), gastric and intestinal ulcers, severe cases of heart failure. Possible side effects: weakened heart rate, redness of the eyes, a feeling of dryness of the nasal mucosa, sleep disturbances, weakness and dizziness.

For the hypotonic type of SVD, the doctor may prescribe a drug "Sidnokarb", stimulating the action of the nervous system while simultaneously increasing blood pressure.

Method of administration and dosage of the drug. The tablets are taken before meals, preferably in the first half of the day, so as not to cause sleep disturbances. The dosage of the drug is purely individual. The recommended starting dose is 5 mg. Subsequently, it can be increased to 50 mg per day. For long-term use, the dose is 5-10 mg per day. The daily dose can be taken once or divided into 2 doses.

Side effects: appetite may decrease, dizziness and anxiety may increase, and insomnia may appear. Allergic reactions and increased blood pressure are possible.

Caution should be taken when taking the drug simultaneously with Phenazepam. Incompatibility with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and some antidepressants. The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy and hypertension.

Drug treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia must necessarily be supplemented by taking vitamin preparations and vitamin-mineral complexes. Vitamins such as “Kvadevit”, “Dekamevit”, “Multitabs”, “Vitrum”, etc. are prescribed.

Treatment of SVD using physiotherapy methods

It is important to note that in the case of autonomic dysfunction syndrome there is not always a need for drug therapy. If the disease progresses smoothly, mild symptoms can be treated with physiotherapy and traditional medicine. In case of paroxysmal course of the disease and noticeable severity of symptoms, these methods are used in combination with treatment with pharmaceutical drugs.

With this pathology, very good results are obtained by physiotherapeutic treatment in the form of massage procedures, acupuncture, electrosleep (the effect of low-frequency pulsed current on the brain), galvanization (the effect of low-frequency direct current on the body), electrophoresis with sedatives.

Water procedures, such as medicinal baths, including baths with mineral waters, have a positive effect on SVD. The massage effect of a jet of water when using a Charcot shower perfectly calms the nervous system and tones the body. In addition, patients with autonomic dysfunction syndrome are advised to: swimming in the pool, active walks in the fresh air, physical therapy and breathing exercises.

The main part of physiotherapy methods is aimed at relieving nervous tension, the effects of stress, fears, helping the patient to calm down and relax so that the body can rest and activate its strength to fight pathology. After all, when diagnosed with VSD, it is often enough to calm down and rest for the symptoms of the vegetative syndrome to disappear.

Traditional medicine and treatment of autonomic dysfunction syndrome

The methods of traditional medicine in the case of SVD are as varied and diverse as all the symptoms of this pathology are innumerable. It is almost impossible to list them all, but, nevertheless, it is worth dwelling on the most interesting and accessible recipes for traditional treatment. After all, such treatment is often not only effective, but also pleasant, and it has fewer contraindications than pharmaceutical products. This means that it can be used during pregnancy and in other cases when the use of synthetic drugs is undesirable.

Patients with cardiac and hypertensive types of SVD can be advised to take preparations from hawthorn. They can significantly strengthen the heart muscle, normalize blood circulation and normalize blood pressure. Hawthorn fruits can be consumed both fresh and dried (tinctures, decoctions, teas).

One of the most delicious traditional medicines for the treatment of autonomic dysfunction syndrome is warm homemade cow's milk with a spoonful of aromatic flower honey diluted in it. Such a sweet drink will calm your nerves and strengthen your sleep.

Another tasty and healthy vitamin remedy: mix dried apricots (200g), figs, nuts and raisins (25g each), grind the composition in a meat grinder or blender. Once a day, preferably in the morning, take 1 tablespoon of the medicinal treat, washed down with fermented milk products (kefir, yogurt). After a month's course of taking this tasty medicine, you need to take a week's break and repeat the course again.

This remedy may not seem as tasty, but it is no less effective than the previous ones. Mix the juice of 5 lemons with a glass of honey and chopped garlic (5 medium heads). After infusing the mixture for a week, take it before meals three times a day, a teaspoon for about 2 months.

Don’t rush to throw this forest beauty in the trash after the New Year holidays, because pine needles are not only an excellent vitamin supplement, but also an indispensable assistant in strengthening the heart and blood vessels. It should be taken in the form of tea or infusion (7 tablespoons of crushed pine needles per 1 liter of boiling water).

Traditional medicine uses the following herbs and herbal mixtures to relieve symptoms of SVD:

• The herb and flowers of chamomile are capable of activating the work of the central nervous system and autonomic nervous system, while having a calming effect, the ability to relieve nervous tension, dilate blood vessels and relieve muscle spasms. Use as tea or infusion (1 tablespoon of herb per glass of boiling water).
• Valerian officinalis is a sedative that has a beneficial effect on the heart and nervous system. Used in the form of herbal infusion in water, alcohol tincture or tablets.
• Motherwort herb, which is called heart herb, also has a calming effect on the nervous system, relieves heart pain and palpitations. Can be used in the form of tea, infusion or pharmaceutical alcohol tincture. To prepare the infusion, take 3 tbsp. l. herbs, pour a glass of boiling water and leave for about 1.5 hours. Take 1 tbsp before meals. l. 3-4 times a day.
• Mint and lemon balm, brewed as tea, will help calm the nervous system and relieve tension accumulated during the day, giving you restful sleep and good rest. These herbs will help effectively fight headaches associated with autonomic dysfunction syndrome.
• All of the above herbs can also be used for taking medicinal baths. To do this, 250 grams of any of the herbs or a mixture of herbs are boiled for about 10 minutes in a sufficient amount of water and infused for an hour. The broth is filtered and added to a warm bath. The duration of taking herbal medicinal baths is from 15 to 30 minutes.

Homeopathy in the treatment of SVD

The variety of symptoms of autonomic dysfunction syndrome in the same patient leads to the fact that a person is simultaneously prescribed several medications to relieve unpleasant symptoms. Long-term use of large amounts of synthetic drugs can negatively affect the functioning of the body's excretory systems, such as the liver and kidneys. Therefore, more and more patients are leaning toward homeopathic treatment, which is safer and quite effective (more than 85% effective).

Popular homeopathic medicines include cardiac and sedatives.

• Cardioica is a homeopathic drug whose action is aimed at normalizing blood pressure and heart rate, as well as relieving pain in the heart area.

Take the drug before breakfast (15 minutes before) 5 granules under the tongue until completely dissolved for a month. During crises, the drug is taken two or even three times with an interval of 20 minutes. The course of treatment can be repeated after 2-3 months.

• Cralonin is a cardiac drug with a noticeable sedative effect. Available in the form of a solution. It has a lowering effect on blood pressure, eliminates heart rhythm disturbances and pain in the heart area, and calms the nervous system. Approved for use from 12 years of age.

Dosage of the drug: from 10 to 20 drops per half glass of water (100 g) at a time. Three times the drug is taken during the day. Typically the course of treatment lasts 2-3 weeks.

• Nervohel is a homeopathic drug that has a sedative effect, relieves depression, and improves sleep. Approved for use from 3 years.

Take the product three times, 1 tablet, without chewing, holding it in the mouth until completely dissolved. It is recommended to take the drug half an hour before a meal or an hour after it. The usual course is 2-3 weeks.

• Notta is a drug with a pronounced sedative effect. Calms the nervous system, relieving overexcitation and fears that accompany autonomic dysfunction syndrome, and improves sleep quality. Available both in tablets and in the form of an alcohol solution.

Dosage of the drug for adults: 1 tablet or 10 drops three times a day, half an hour before meals or an hour after it. For children under 12 years of age, the dosage is 2 times less (5 drops or half a tablet). Both tablets and drops must be kept in the mouth for some time without swallowing. Drops can be drunk by dissolving them in a tablespoon of water. In crisis conditions, it is possible to take the drug every half hour up to 8 times a day.

Despite all the safety of the drugs used in homeopathy, taking them without prior consultation with a doctor may not only not have the desired effect, but also cause irreparable harm to health when used in childhood, during pregnancy, as well as in case of individual intolerance to individual components of homeopathic remedies .

Vegetative-vascular dystonia (VSD) is a common disease that causes disorders of the autonomic nervous system. As a result, internal organs do not work properly, which leads to unpleasant symptoms. The signs of the disease are so varied that ICD 10 was not included as such. It is regarded as part of a whole complex of pathologies of the nervous system, corresponding to codes G90-G99 according to the international classifier.

Modern medicine does not consider vegetative dystonia syndrome to be an independent disease. This is a certain set of symptoms that are part of various somatic and mental pathologies. The basis of VSD is considered to be an imbalance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic autonomic nervous systems. They are responsible for the proper functioning of internal organs.

The sympathetic nervous system supports the body during various stressful situations. It promotes the release of such important hormones for the body as dopamine, adrenaline, norepinephrine. Due to this, the dilation of blood vessels in the brain occurs simultaneously with their narrowing in other organs, the heartbeat and ventilation of the lungs increase, blood pressure increases, and the pupils dilate. As a result, the body is able to endure various stressful and even life-threatening situations.

The parasympathetic system promotes the production of acetylcholine and has completely opposite effects. It is responsible for the dilation of blood vessels in the periphery, reduces the heart rate and their strength, helps reduce ventilation of the lungs, and constricts the pupils.

Normally, these two systems work harmoniously, however, if their actions are not coordinated, various unpleasant symptoms may appear. When the effects of the sympathetic system predominate, arrhythmias develop, the pulse increases, and the person is tormented by feelings of anxiety and fear. Increased action of the parasympathetic system leads to a drop in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and a decrease in heart rate to 40-50 beats per minute.

Many patients do not take the signs of vegetative-vascular dystonia seriously, however, the symptoms of this pathology can cause serious disorders that affect several organs at once.

Reasons for the development of VSD

Both adults and children are susceptible to the disease. To date, many reasons have been identified that can provoke the development of vegetative-vascular dystonia. The most common of them are worth considering in more detail.

1. The cause of the development of pathology may be a person’s genetic disposition. The risk of developing symptoms of the disease in this case becomes twice as high. The development of VSD can be suspected at an early age. It is expressed by instability of the emotional and mental state, rapid exhaustion of the nervous system.
2. Prolonged stress, depressive states, severe emotional shock, psychological trauma - all this can negatively affect a person’s condition and cause unpredictable harm to the body. Usually the body copes with short-term mental overloads on its own and quickly enough. But if stressful situations are prolonged, then this is a clear prerequisite for the development of pathology.
3. One of the causes of VSD can be excessive physical activity and an overly active lifestyle. Quite often the disease is diagnosed in people involved in sports at a professional level. The daily work of the body for wear and tear, the desire to achieve maximum results in the shortest possible time will eventually lead to the development of pathology.
4. A sedentary lifestyle or too little physical activity can also cause the development of dystonia. With such a slow pace of life, the nervous system also malfunctions, which ultimately leads to pathology.
5. Vegetative-vascular dystonia, which develops against the background of other chronic diseases, is also common. The root cause can be: diabetes mellitus, osteochondrosis, asthma, problems with the endocrine system.
6. VSD can develop with frequent changes in time zones and climate. Each body reacts differently to such drastic changes and not everyone tolerates them well.
7. Focal infections and hormonal changes occurring in the body can also contribute to the development of autonomic disorder.

VSD in childhood

The disease in children develops to a greater extent due to excessive emotional stress. Stressful situations, a feeling of constant anxiety, mental stress at school - all this contributes to the appearance of the first symptoms. Also, the cause of VSD can be age-related hormonal changes in the body.

You can determine whether a child is sick by sudden changes in mood, sleep disturbances, decreased activity, and also by rapid fatigue. Also, vegetative-vascular dysfunction may be accompanied by shortness of breath, vomiting, hearing and vision impairment.

Children who lead an inactive lifestyle and are constantly at the computer are more at risk of developing the disease. To avoid the occurrence of vegetative-vascular dystonia, you need to move a lot, play sports, eat right, and also follow a sleep and rest schedule.

Important: A child in a family must live in love and harmony; psychological trauma in childhood can lead to serious complications in the future.

Types of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Since the disease is accompanied by many different and even opposing symptoms, several types of pathology are distinguished. As already mentioned, vegetative-vascular dystonia does not have a code according to ICD 10, but based on the identified disorders, other diagnoses can be made.

Hypertensive type

VSD of the hypertensive type is accompanied by surges in blood pressure, increased fatigue, and general weakness. Severe headaches and frequent mood swings occur. This type of VSD according to ICD 10 corresponds to codes I10, I15 - the first or second stage of arterial hypertension.

Hypotonic type

This type of dystonia, on the contrary, is characterized by a decrease in pressure, therefore, according to the classification, it belongs to psychosomatic pathologies. Manifested by the following symptoms:

• pale skin;
• dizziness;
• decreased blood pressure;
• tachycardia or bradycardia.

According to the international classification, the totality of such signs establishes the diagnosis of somatophoric dysfunction (F45.3).

Mixed type

The development of pathology is characterized by changes in vascular tone. Blood pressure readings may deviate sharply up or down. Weakness, apathy, headaches and heart pain develop. Each case must be examined individually by doctors to identify the real cause of the pathology.

Cardiac type

With VSD of this type, pain in the heart develops due to a sharp narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels. External signs of pathology: pale skin, less developed chest. When exposed to unfavorable factors (stressful situations), a person’s condition is aggravated by a feeling of constant fatigue and apathy.

Vagotonic type

Autonomic dysfunction of this type is always accompanied by various disturbances in the functioning of the respiratory system. It is difficult for patients to take a full breath, which causes signs of oxygen starvation to develop and a decrease in blood pressure.

Diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia

When a patient seeks medical help with complaints about the symptoms listed above, the doctor’s main task is to exclude somatic diseases that could provoke the unpleasant condition. For this purpose, a full examination is prescribed, including:

• visual and neurological examination;
• urine and blood tests;
• electrocardiogram;
• blood pressure monitoring;
• Ultrasound of blood vessels and heart;
• electroencephalography;
• computed tomography or MRI.

In addition, you will definitely need to consult a neuropsychiatrist to exclude the development of mental disorders. Only after a complete examination will the doctor be able to establish an accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Important: In case of vegetative-vascular dysfunction, it is necessary to regularly monitor blood pressure to avoid more serious complications, for example.

VSD therapy

There is no specific drug course of treatment for vegetative-vascular syndrome. Medicines are selected individually in accordance with the developed symptoms. Doctors will help identify internal problems that provoke an inadequate response of the body to external stimuli.

In addition, the patient will be asked to master any relaxation techniques: yoga, breathing exercises.

It is also necessary to follow other medical recommendations, you will need:

1. Properly distribute the time spent on work and rest, and avoid daily mental overload.
2. Avoid drinking alcohol completely, as it can give an imaginary feeling of relief, but in reality only contributes to worsening the problem.
3. Stop smoking tobacco.
4. Carry out hardening procedures every day or at least take a contrast shower.
5. Eliminate fatty, fried and canned foods from your diet, as they contribute to the deterioration of blood vessels.
6. Include physical therapy into your daily schedule.

By following these simple rules, getting rid of the symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia will not be difficult. In severe cases, the doctor may prescribe medications to help stabilize the condition. These include antidepressants and sedatives.

Still have questions? Ask them in the comments! A cardiologist will answer them.

Characteristic signs of SDVNS are the abundance and vague nature of complaints. The patient may experience symptoms from several organs at the same time. The clinical picture consists of subjective sensations and disorders of the functioning of a particular organ caused by disruption of the autonomic nervous system. Symptoms and complaints resemble the clinical picture of any somatic disease, but differ from it by uncertainty, nonspecificity and high variability.
The cardiovascular system. Patients with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system are often bothered by pain in the heart area. Such pain in its nature and time of occurrence differs from pain due to angina pectoris and other heart diseases. There is no clear irradiation. The pain can be stabbing, pressing, squeezing, aching, pulling, sharp. Sometimes accompanied by excitement, feelings of anxiety and fear. They usually occur at rest and go away with exercise. Provoked by traumatic situations. They may disappear within a few minutes or persist for a day or more.
Along with pain, patients with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system often complain of palpitations. Seizures occur both during movement and at rest, and are sometimes accompanied by arrhythmia. The resting heart rate can reach 100 or more beats per minute. Possible increase or decrease in blood pressure. Changes in blood pressure can be quite stable or detected in stressful situations. Sometimes pathological manifestations of the cardiovascular system are so pronounced that a therapist or cardiologist may suspect that the patient has hypertension or myocardial infarction.
Respiratory system. A characteristic symptom of somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system is shortness of breath, which increases with anxiety and stress. Such shortness of breath is usually not noticeable from the outside, but causes severe inconvenience to the patient. The patient may experience a feeling of shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, or difficulty breathing. Often, pathological manifestations of the respiratory system are observed for many hours in a row or disappear only during sleep. Patients constantly feel discomfort due to lack of air, ventilate the rooms all the time, and have a hard time tolerating the stuffiness. Sometimes coughing, choking and laryngospasm occur with SDVNS. Children with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system more often suffer from respiratory infections, bronchitis and attacks of pseudoasthma are possible.
Digestive system. Swallowing disorders, aerophagia, dysphagia, pylorospasm, abdominal discomfort and pain in the stomach not associated with food intake may be observed. Sometimes patients with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system are bothered by hiccups that occur in the presence of other people and are unusually loud. Another characteristic symptom of ADHD is “bear disease” - diarrhea during acute stress. Flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome and chronic stool disorders (tendency to constipation or diarrhea) are often detected.
Urinary system. Patients with somatoform dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system complain of various urinary disorders: an urgent need to urinate in the absence of a toilet, polyuria in psychologically traumatic situations, urinary retention in the presence of a stranger or in a public toilet. Children may experience enuresis or increased frequency of urination at night.

Vegetovascular dystonia (VSD) according to the code, that is, according to ICD-10, is not distinguished as a pathology itself, but is interpreted as several disorders. There is no such diagnosis in European countries, and the disease itself is written under other names of ailments associated with the autonomic nervous system. Such disorders are numbered G90-G99.

The essence of the disease VSD according to ICD-10 is expressed in the fact that there is an imbalance in the body or the work of the sympathetic and parasympathetic parts of the nervous system is not controlled. The brain mistakenly receives signals coming from nerve endings. In the future, he gives incorrect commands, which manifest themselves not only in headaches, but also in thermoregulation disorders, as well as gastrointestinal problems. In children or in adolescence, VSD can be encountered more often, which is associated with the slow growth of the nervous system, but also the rapid growth of the body.

Causes of VSD

Vegetovascular dystonia ICD code 10

In the hospital, therapists often make a diagnosis, but do not indicate the ICD-10 VSD code. Subsequently, the patient's chart indicates a disease called “somatoform degenerative dysfunction”, as well as the appropriate code F45.3. The disease is associated with the functioning of the cardiovascular system and the influence of the human psyche on it. As a result of the risk factor, the blood vessels are compressed. Later they expand, and the heart does not have time to get used to changes in pressure.

Pathology coded F45.3 includes:

• vascular dysfunction;
• patient weakness;
• neuroses;
• panic attacks;
• dysfunction of body systems.

Experts distinguish such subtypes of VSD as:

• mixed;
• hypertensive;
• hypotonic.

The disease does not fall under the F45.3 classification, since it is only a mental illness, namely, caused by stressful situations. There are no neurotic disorders, and the pathology is interpreted as Da Costa syndrome.

The hypertensive type of VSD disease occurs most often in the category of people over 30 years of age. It is important to distinguish the diagnosis from migraine and severe pain early in treatment. An electroencephalogram can be performed to determine the functional activity of the brain.

Medicines for VSD

Symptoms

The clinical picture matters, and with VSD of the hypertensive type the following symptoms occur:

• increase in pressure. Spontaneous or during physical activity;
• rise in body temperature;
• increased breathing, for example, to the point of asthma attacks;
• nausea or vomiting;
• sudden headaches as a result of a change in position, as well as during stressful situations or under stress;
• chest pain;
• anxiety, fear and panic, as well as self-isolation;
• lethargy and fatigue;
• insomnia.

According to the hypotonic type, all the symptoms are similar, but the only difference is increased fatigue and the predominance of low blood pressure. Headaches are present. They may occur after an unscheduled sleep.

If in foreign medicine a patient has such symptoms, then the patient is further examined. In the future, the doctor may interpret the disease as hypertension. Will put a code in ICD-10 for VSD as for hypertension - I10 or I15. Hypertension occurs in adults. And the very absence of VSD in the classification is explained by the following reasons:

• in adult patients, VSD turns into hypertension;
• In children, VSD occurs at puberty and disappears after puberty.

If the disease does not disappear, then in 70% of cases it turns into hypertension. Medicines that should be taken for VSD are selected by a doctor. Often it is enough to normalize the daily routine so that the symptoms stop disturbing the patient. This is another explanation for the absence of VSD as a single nosology in ICD-10. In case of severe somatic manifestations of the disease, it is important to stabilize the functioning of the nervous system.

Diagnosis of VSD type

This is why groups of drugs are prescribed:

• sedatives;
• antidepressants;
• tranquilizers;
• sleeping pills.

These pills are given with a doctor's prescription. Sometimes hypotonic drugs are prescribed in addition to normalize blood pressure.

VSD according to ICD: mixed form

Symptoms of the disease are characterized by reverse manifestations depending on the situation.

Typical signs of the disease are:

• decreased muscle tone;
• fatigue, as well as lethargy with drowsiness;
• decreased appetite;
• pale skin;
• surges in blood pressure with a predominance of low levels;
• mild brain hypoxia, for example, due to vasospasm or low blood pressure.

The patient himself often feels tired and anxious. He may have panic attacks. According to the psychological type, such a patient is asthenic or neurotic. He is often worried about somatogenic diseases.

VSD according to ICD-10 is interpreted differently. It may also depend on the specialist to whom the patient receives an appointment. Sometimes the disease is concomitant or a complication of some previous infection. The main thing is to find out the cause of vegetative-vascular dystonia and make the main diagnosis according to the international classification.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia– this is not an independent disease, but a certain condition expressed by the manifestation of a set of symptoms. This pathological condition of the body is classified as a disease of the nervous system. In the international classification of diseases (ICD code - 10), VSD cannot be found as such. The syndrome belongs to the class of diseases of the nervous system, occupying the range G00-G99. But even here, VSD is not indicated by its name, but is related to the category “Other disorders of the nervous system” under the number G90.8.

Causes of VSD

The nature of VSD is still not well understood. The person complains of completely different manifestations, which upon more detailed examination have no basis. All serious illnesses are not confirmed, and everything remains at the level of patient complaints. According to statistics, the condition of VSD is observed in every third person, and neither the region of residence nor the age group matters. In children, VSD occurs no less often than in adults - this is approximately 30%. The appearance of the very first symptoms of VSD occurs in adolescence or childhood.

The causes of VSD include:

• past infectious diseases;
• lack of activity in life. Due to inactivity, the heart muscle weakens and, accordingly, it loses its ability to pump blood properly;
• deficiency of vitamins and nutrients in the body. Because of this, brain cells and other internal organs suffer.
• a person has bad habits;
• pathologies of the endocrine system and hormonal imbalances. People suffer from this especially severely in adolescence, but patients of any age can experience it. This occurs due to improper functioning of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands and liver;
• severe overstrain, both physical and emotional, frequent stressful situations. Due to the fact that the body is in constant anxiety, its immune forces are significantly weakened, which has the most detrimental effect on the functioning of various systems and internal organs;
• regular lack of sleep. This factor causes enormous harm to brain activity.
• the presence of mental disorders or diseases of the central nervous system;
• poor nutrition, excess body weight, lack of physical activity.
• state of pregnancy or menopause in women.
• diabetes;
• diseases and injuries of the cervical spine. Due to pinching of the nerve endings of the spinal column, signals from the nervous system are distorted, which negatively affects the functioning of internal organs;
• hereditary predisposition.

It has been noted that the syndromes that are included in the concept of VSD occur together with some kind of mental disorder. Often, having begun treatment for physical manifestations, mental ones are simply not paid attention to at first. For example, if a patient complains of high blood pressure and severe headaches, few doctors will immediately notice behavioral or motivational disturbances.

Manifestations of anxiety, tearfulness, insomnia and, conversely, daytime sleepiness are often attributed to unstable emotionality. Diagnosing VSD is always difficult precisely due to the many neurosis-like conditions.

Groups of VSD syndromes according to ICD 10

Certain groups of syndromes have been formed that characterize vegetative-vascular dystonia:

Syndrome groups	Description
Adaptation syndrome	With VSD, it is expressed in an inadequate human reaction to emerging adverse conditions. With this syndrome, anxiety is very pronounced. This is so pronounced that the patient loses a lot of weight and may even experience metabolic disorders. This condition is not included in the ICD 10 code.
Asthenic syndrome of VSD	Characterized by debilitating weakness and increased fatigue. A person turns out to be incapable of heavy physical and mental stress, and because of this, irritability also increases. Not listed in ICD 10 code
Hyperventilation syndrome VSD	Manifested by lack of air. More precisely, the patient seems to constantly lack air and is suffocating. At the same time, there are complaints that there is a feeling of pressure on the chest and a feeling of a lump in the throat.
Neurogastric syndrome VSD	These are disorders associated with the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract and the secretion function of this area. The consequence of this is flatulence, nausea and frequent attacks of heartburn.
Cardiovascular syndrome VSD	It is expressed by pain in the heart area, which, however, is not associated with physical activity. Examinations regarding complaints do not bring results - the person turns out to be somatically healthy. VSD syndrome is not included in the ICD 10 code.
Cerebrovascular syndrome VSD	It is detected by frequent headaches and dizziness, tinnitus and faintness.
Peripheral VSD syndrome	Characterized by changes in skin color and severe swelling.

Treatment and, most importantly, diagnosis is not a very simple process, since the syndromes are not included in the ICD 10 code. The basis for successful treatment are antidepressant drugs aimed at reducing anxiety levels.

Symptoms of all types of VSD

Symptoms of VSD:

1. Significant changes in blood pressure during VSD: critical values ​​at any level are possible.
2. Abnormal heart rate, which can cause nosebleeds. In this case, there is cooling of the arms and legs and severe weakness.
3. Sleep disturbances at the time of VSD, which are expressed in the appearance of insomnia. Patients try to overcome this condition either with sleeping pills or large doses of alcoholic beverages.
4. Frequent, debilitating headaches, which are localized either in the occipital or frontal part of the head.
5. Weakness and apathy with VSD, inability to perform any work.
6. Excessive nervousness, aggressiveness and irritability.
7. Disorders of memory, hearing and vision in VSD.
8. Gastrointestinal disorders: constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.
9. Intolerance to cold or heat.
10. Panic at the moment of VSD and a feeling of unreasonable fear.

Types of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Types of VSD:

• The hypotonic type of VSD manifests itself at a fairly early age and occurs more often in women. Low blood pressure (100 mm or less) accompanies all other manifestations and disorders. Each patient has his own set of symptoms. The most common of them include: cramps of the arms and legs (especially often at night) and their chilliness, disturbances in heart rate and breathing (especially pronounced after heavy exertion), headaches and fainting, changes in digestion: diarrhea, heartburn. Mental disorders include panic attacks, depression, and an unreasonable feeling of fear. Sleep disorders and apathy are common even with severe fatigue. Diagnosis is difficult due to the fact that the symptoms are general. This condition does not have its own ICD-10 code.
• The hypertensive type of VSD appears with high blood pressure. As pressure increases, symptoms become more pronounced. The main signs of this type include: tinnitus and headaches, visual disturbances (black spots in front of the eyes are possible), memory and concentration problems, nausea, panic attacks, finger tremors and problems with coordination (fussiness). Does not have its own ICD 10 code.
• The cardiac type of VSD occurs due to endocrine or cardiovascular pathologies.

This type of disorder manifests itself in one of three syndromes:

1. cardiac syndrome (9/10 of all cases of cardiac VSD). In this case, pain in the heart occurs.
2. tachycardia syndrome with VSD is characterized by rapid heartbeat and extremely low human performance.
3. bradycardic VSD syndrome is manifested, on the contrary, by a decrease in heart rate and severe headaches, increased sweating and possible fainting.
4. the mixed type of VSD condition is most often hereditary. With this course of the disease, pressure can fluctuate from high to low and vice versa. In connection with these jumps, other symptoms arise. Does not have its own ICD 10 code.

VSD is often called neurocirculatory dystonia. This condition is not listed in ICD-10; it is classified as a neurological disorder.

Muscle disease

This type of VSD occurs in children in infancy and is characterized by impaired development of muscle tone and motor activity. Excessively relaxed muscles (hypotonicity), excessively tense (hypertonicity), as well as unevenly tense muscles are also considered deviations from normal indicators. The child may not be comfortable with any of these conditions, so treatment will be required in each of these cases.

With hypertonicity, the child is restless, often cries and sleeps poorly, he may experience excessive regurgitation and trembling of the chin.

Hypotonia may not cause suspicion among parents at all; it will simply seem to them that their child is always full and happy with everything. This explains his calmness. This state, in fact, is much easier for the child himself than the previous one.

The mother's suspicion may be caused by the fact that the baby has an extremely difficult time waking up on his own, may fall asleep during feeding (and eats poorly), which causes a lack of body weight. Such VSD is not a disease in itself, but it may indicate the presence of serious diseases such as diabetes mellitus, rickets or even polio, as well as a number of others. Does not have its own ICD 10 code.

Cervical dystonia

This type of VSD is more popularly known as torticollis. The disease is neurological in nature and is expressed in incorrect positioning of the head. This condition does not pose a direct threat to human life, but it is extremely inconvenient in everyday life. The cervical type of VSD is always an acquired disease and can occur at any age; it does not have its own ICD 10 code.

The causes of this condition include previous infectious diseases of the brain, traumatic brain injuries and neck injuries, the use of antipsychotic drugs and toxic brain damage. If the cause of this condition cannot be determined, it is called idiopathic cervical VSD.

Torsion dystonia

VSD is progressive in nature and its main symptom is uncontrolled tonic contractions of various muscle groups. Because of these contractions, the human body as a whole and its individual parts may acquire uncharacteristic and non-standard postures. This pathology is dangerous because it can cause irreversible curvature of the spine or limitation of passive contractions of the joint (contracture). Most often, this type of VSD is diagnosed in young people under 20 years of age. 65% of all cases of torsion dystonia occur under the age of 15 years. Most often, torsion VSD has a hereditary predisposition. The ICD-10 code for this condition is G-24.

This type begins with the appearance of periodic spasms during load on a muscle group that turns out to be susceptible to VSD. A good example: writer's cramp occurs while a person is writing. At the same time, the fingers of his limb are cramped, and they take a hooked shape. Corkscrew-like body movements occur in a person when walking. During sleep, the muscles relax and such manifestations do not occur.

Treatment of autonomic disorders

Treatment methods for VSD:

• normalization of the daily routine, including a full 8-hour night sleep.
• compulsory exercise therapy and gymnastics - running, swimming, and cycling are especially effective.
• if necessary, weight loss and constant weight monitoring.
• the use of antidepressants, sedatives to eliminate anxiety, fear and panic attacks and bring the nervous system to a normal state.
• quitting smoking and alcohol during VSD.
• physiotherapeutic procedures and acupuncture restore damaged cells.
• Psychological assistance will have a beneficial effect in the fight against a person’s fears and phobias.

Although VSD does not have its own ICD-10 code, it is necessary to treat this condition. Therapy of chronic diseases is an important process in getting rid of any form of VSD. After all, infectious foci are very dangerous and prevent internal organs and the psyche from functioning properly.