Dysautonomia and Headache in Patients with HSD | Dr. Svetlana Blitshteyn, MD, Neurologist

In her presentation at the ILC Conference, Dr. Svetlana Blitshteyn, a neurologist, discusses the intersection of dysautonomia, specifically POTS, headaches, and hypermobility spectrum disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the autonomic nervous system's role and outlines the diagnostic criteria and tests for POTS, such as tilt table tests, and mentions common comorbidities like migraine and autoimmune disorders. Dr. Blitshteyn also covers the possible underlying autoimmune components of dysautonomia and the potential links between dysautonomia, EDS, and MCAS. For treatment, she discusses both pharmacological options like beta blockers and non-pharmacological approaches. She stresses the importance of addressing all components, including potential small fiber neuropathy and migraine, for comprehensive management. The presentation also highlights the complex and variable nature of these disorders, the need for a multidisciplinary treatment approach, and the significance of increased awareness and research.