What is dysautonomia characterized by?

Dysautonomia is a term that encompasses a variety of conditions characterized by dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature control. The essence of dysautonomia lies in the abnormal regulation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the ANS.

The sympathetic division typically governs the body's 'fight or flight' responses, while the parasympathetic division is responsible for 'rest and digest' activities. In dysautonomia, the balance between these two divisions is disturbed, often leading to a range of symptoms including heart rate irregularities, blood pressure fluctuations, digestion issues, and more. This condition can manifest in various forms, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and neurocardiogenic syncope, all highlighting the abnormal functioning of autonomic regulation.

The other choices refer to different physiological issues that may not necessarily relate directly to dysautonomia. Excessive joint mobility, restricted blood flow to extremities, and increased muscle tension can occur in various musculoskeletal or circulatory conditions but are not defining characteristics of dysautonomia itself. Thus, understanding that dysautonomia fundamentally stems from abnormalities in autonomic