neurocirculatory asthenia

Neurocirculatory Asthenia (NCA): A Complex Disorder

Neurocirculatory asthenia, also known as effort syndrome or irritable heart, is a clinical syndrome characterized by a range of symptoms that affect both the nervous and circulatory systems. The condition is often associated with anxiety disorders and can be triggered by physical exertion, emotional stress, or other factors.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of neurocirculatory asthenia may include:

• Breathing difficulties: Shortness of breath, labored breathing, or feeling like one cannot catch their breath.
• Heart palpitations: Irregular heartbeats or a racing heartbeat.
• Dizziness and lightheadedness: Feeling faint or dizzy, especially when standing up.
• Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or experiencing restlessness.
• Anxiety and nervousness: Feelings of anxiety, irritability, or intense self-preoccupation.

Other Characteristics

Neurocirculatory asthenia is often associated with autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can lead to symptoms such as:

• Orthostatic intolerance: Symptoms that worsen when standing up.
• Chest discomfort: Feeling like one's chest is tight or constricted.
• Fatigability: Feeling tired or exhausted easily.

Prevalence and Recognition

Neurocirculatory asthenia is a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 5% of the population. It has been studied for over 100 years by many distinguished physicians and has been recognized as a chronic condition in both sexes in civilian life.

References

• [1] The term "neurocirculatory asthenia" was adopted in America during World War I to classify symptoms referable to the cardiovascular system not dependent on any known pathologic process of the heart or blood vessels.
• [3] A condition characterized by development of symptoms while standing. It is an autonomic nervous system disorder and the symptoms are relieved once the person sits back down.
• [12] Neurocirculatory asthenia Synonyms Irritable heart; Mitral valve prolapse syndrome; Norepinephrine Transporter Deficiency; Orthostatic intolerance; Soldiers heart.
• [13] Neurocirculatory asthenia (NCA) refers to weakness in both your nervous and circulatory systems. Mental health conditions, particularly anxiety , may be related to NCA, so treatment and management should consider this aspect.

Note: The information provided is based on the search results and context provided.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Neurocirculatory Asthenia

Neurocirculatory asthenia, also known as effort syndrome or neurocirculatory asthenia syndrome, is a condition characterized by a range of physical and emotional symptoms. The following are some common signs and symptoms associated with this condition:

• Respiratory complaints: Breathlessness, smothering sensations, and palpitation are almost universal symptoms in individuals with neurocirculatory asthenia [8].
• Cardiovascular symptoms: Palpitations, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), chest discomfort not typical of angina pectoris, and faintness are common cardiovascular symptoms experienced by individuals with this condition [13].
• Autonomic nervous system imbalance: An imbalance in the autonomic nervous system can lead to symptoms such as palpitations, tachycardia, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), and vertigo (dizziness) [11].
• Emotional symptoms: Emotional tension, irritability, intense self-preoccupation, and anxiety are common emotional symptoms experienced by individuals with neurocirculatory asthenia [9].
• Physical symptoms: Fatigability, sweating, and lightheadedness are also reported physical symptoms associated with this condition [14].

Other notable symptoms

• Brilliant dark brick red color of the ears and lips due to capillary dilatation and stasis [6]
• Dilation of pupils [6]
• Coarse tremors [6]

It is essential to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may be influenced by individual factors, such as stress levels and family history. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a medical professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

References: [6] - Context result 6 [8] - Context result 8 [9] - Context result 9 [11] - Context result 11 [13] - Context result 13 [14] - Context result 14

Diagnostic Tests for Neurocirculatory Asthenia

Neurocirculatory asthenia, also known as effort syndrome or neurasthenia, is a condition characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. To diagnose this condition, various diagnostic tests can be performed.

• Blood tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for infections, hormone imbalances, or nutrient deficiencies that could be contributing to the symptoms of neurocirculatory asthenia [9].
• Urine tests: Urine tests may also be used to look for underlying illnesses that could be causing the symptoms [9].
• Exercise testing: Exercise testing is a useful method for evaluating patients with neurocirculatory asthenia, as it can help identify excessive tachycardia responses and other cardiovascular issues [6].
• Radiographic imaging: Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans, and ultrasounds may be needed to rule out other conditions that could be causing the symptoms [8].

It's essential to note that a comprehensive clinical history is crucial in diagnosing neurocirculatory asthenia. A doctor will typically conduct an exhaustive clinical history to identify any underlying causes of the condition [11].

Treatment Options for Neurocirculatory Asthenia

Neurocirculatory asthenia (NCA) can be effectively managed with various drug treatments, which aim to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

• Glucocorticoids: Studies have shown that glucocorticoids, such as dexamethasone, prednisone, and methylprednisolone, are beneficial in treating asthenia and fatigue associated with NCA [4].
• Propranolol: Propranolol, a beta-blocker, has been found to be effective in managing symptoms of NCA in an open pilot study [6].
• Adaptol: A daily dosage of 1500 mg of Adaptol for 8 weeks has been shown to have high efficacy (74% improvement) in treating patients with NCA [10].
• Bemithyl and Pyrazidol: A combination of bemithyl, an antihypoxant, and pyrazidol, an antidepressant, has been found to reduce long-term sequences of symptoms in patients with asthenoneurotic and asthenovegetative syndromes after moderate isolated brain injury [11].

Important Considerations

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. These medications should only be used under the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner, as they may have side effects or interact with other medications.

References:

[4] Glucocorticoids for asthenia and fatigue in NCA [6] Propranolol in the treatment of neurocirculatory asthenia [10] Adaptol efficacy in treating patients with NCA [11] Bemithyl and Pyrazidol combination therapy for asthenoneurotic syndromes

Differential Diagnosis of Neurocirculatory Asthenia

Neurocirculatory asthenia, also known as soldier's heart, is a clinical syndrome characterized by various symptoms such as breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, shortness of breath or dizziness, and insomnia. When diagnosing neurocirculatory asthenia, it is essential to consider other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

Common Conditions in Differential Diagnosis

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A condition characterized by persistent fatigue that lasts for more than six months, which can be a challenge to distinguish from neurocirculatory asthenia.
• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A condition marked by rapid heart rate and other symptoms when standing upright, which shares some similarities with neurocirculatory asthenia.
• Neurocirculatory Asthenia: Itself can be a differential diagnosis for conditions like primary neurasthenia and subacute asthenia.
• Myocardial Infarction: A condition where the heart muscle is damaged due to lack of blood supply, which can present with symptoms similar to neurocirculatory asthenia.

Other Conditions to Consider

• Effort Syndrome: Also known as Da Costa's syndrome, this condition presents with symptoms such as fatigue, palpitations, and shortness of breath when engaging in physical activity.
• Hyperthyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland produces excess hormones, which can lead to symptoms like insomnia, tremors, and increased perspiration.
• Chronic Infections: Certain infections, such as tuberculosis or pneumonia, can present with symptoms similar to neurocirculatory asthenia.

Key Points to Consider

• The basal metabolic rate has not been emphasized in the differential diagnosis because it may be more confusing than helpful [5].
• Conditions like psychoneurosis, hyperthyroidism, and chronic infections are often considered in the differential diagnosis of neurocirculatory asthenia [3].

References

[1] by VI Burtsev · 1998 — NCA as a syndrome was associated with blood hypertension, nervous asthenia, ischemic heart disease, spinal osteochondrosis. [2] by HR CRAIG · 1934 · Cited by 57 — One or more associated symptoms were often present: faintness, syncope, headache, dizziness, insomnia, increased perspiration, difficulty in swallowing, tremor, ... [3] by EP McCullagh · 1940 · Cited by 1 — The most common conditions entering into the problem of differential diagnosis are (I) psychoneurosis, (2,) hyper-thyroidism, and (3) chronic infections. [4] by VI Burtsev · 1998 — NCA as a syndrome was associated with blood hypertension, nervous asthenia, ischemic heart disease, spinal osteochondrosis. [5] The basal metabolic rate has not been emphasized in the differential diagnosis because, while helpful if interpreted properly, it often may be more confusing ... [6] by EP McCullagh · 1940 · Cited by 1 — E. Perry McCullagh, M.D.; Differential Diagnosis of Neurocirculatory Asthenia (Soldier's Heart), The Military Surgeon, Volume 87, Issue 6, 1 December 1940, ... [7] May 30, 2023 — Examples of conditions that may cause asthenia include infection, myocardial infarction, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and myasthenia gravis. An ... [8] Neurocirculatory asthenia is a clinical syndrome characterized by breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, a shortness of breath or dizziness, and insomnia. [9] Differential diagnosis · chronic fatigue syndrome, postural orthostatic ... neurocirculatory asthenia, primary neurasthenia, and subacute asthenia. [10] by O Paul · 1987 · Cited by 118 — The syndrome variously called Da Costa's syndrome, effort syndrome, neurocirculatory asthenia, etc has been studied for more than 100 years by many ...