treatment
Last edited 10/2023 and last reviewed 11/2023
Once the diagnosis of autonomic failure has been made it is important to rectify any aetiological factors such as drugs therapy or diabetic control.
Seek expert advice.
The main aim of treatment is to manage the postural hypotension:
- sleep slightly head up, which stimulates renin release and prevents the excessive sodium and fluid loss which would otherwise occur
- intranasal DDAVP can help to reduce nocturnal fluid loss
- fludrocortisone
- vasopressors - may cause recumbent hypertension
- elastic support stocking may help