Types of vegetative-vascular dystonia. Classification.

Treatment

It is possible to completely cure the pathology in question.
But not all doctors agree with this opinion. Drug therapy is prescribed taking into account the type of pathology. Medicines for adolescents are recommended only for severe cases of the disease. Physiotherapeutic procedures can also be used. Particular attention should be paid to diet, daily routine, and lifestyle changes

Important: Treatment should only be prescribed by a doctor, always taking into account the type of VSD. Folk remedies are used in the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Teenagers can be given decoctions of medicinal herbs

In the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia, folk remedies are used. Teenagers can be given decoctions of medicinal herbs.

The following plants are used for calming:

• Melissa,
• mint,
• motherwort,
• rose hip.

Drug therapy for VSD

If non-drug therapy does not justify itself, the doctor prescribes the following drugs:

• sedatives (“Valerian”, “Motherwort”),
• antipsychotics (“Neurispin”, “Ridazine”). Drugs in this group normalize heart rate, calm,
• tranquilizers (“Adaptol”, “Afobazol”). They help eliminate anxiety, nervous disorders,
• antidepressants (Amitriptyline, Coaxil). Prescribed to relieve depression,
• neurometabolites (“Cavinton”, “Oxybral”). Eliminate headaches, normalize blood circulation,
• nootropics (“Noofen”, “Glycine”, “Pantogam”). They relieve increased fatigue, eliminate dizziness, restore concentration,
• “Donormil”, “Zolpidem” relieve insomnia, eliminate headaches,
• tincture of lemongrass, rosea radiola, ginseng, aralia, eleutherococcus increases blood pressure,
• "Metoprolol", "Anaprilin" lower blood pressure,
• “Corvaldin”, “Panangin” normalize heartbeat,
• "Riboxin", "Mildronat" relieve heart pain,
• antioxidants “Succinic acid”, “Kratal” improve cerebral circulation,
• multivitamins (“Neurobeks”, “Neuromultivit”) strengthen the body.

Physiotherapy

As part of complex therapy, it is recommended to carry out the following physiotherapeutic procedures:

• Electrophoresis on the collar area with medications (“Novocaine” relieves heart pain, “Caffeine” low blood pressure, “Magnesium sulfate” high blood pressure).
• Exercise therapy normalizes blood circulation and strengthens the nervous system.
• Acupuncture restores energy and maintains body tone.
• Water procedures help improve muscle tone.
• Acupressure helps improve blood circulation.

Contrast showers, medicinal baths, head massage, and phototherapy also have a good effect on health.

Special diet

Knowing the main causes of VSD in adolescents and the symptoms of this condition, you should contact a specialist. For therapeutic purposes, not only medications and physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed, but they are also recommended to adhere to a special diet.

According to experts, nutrition is considered an important point in the treatment of teenage dystonia. The following foods should be removed from children's diets:

• spicy dishes,
• strong tea,
• smoked meats,
• sweet products,
• animal fats,
• carbonated drinks,
• pickles,
• coffee.

The developing body needs vegetable fats. The foods a child eats should contain many vitamins and microelements. The following products must be present in the diet:

• oatmeal,
• nuts,
• buckwheat grain,
• soybean,
• dried fruits,
• tomatoes,
• beans,
• beet,
• onion,
• eggplants,
• potato,
• carrot,
• parsley.

It is recommended to include more berries and fruits in a teenager’s diet. Freshly squeezed juices (vegetables, fruits) are considered healthy.

Every day you need to eat foods rich in potassium and magnesium. Excess weight is considered a provoking factor. Therefore, doctors recommend losing weight if you are obese.

Features of pathology in children under 5 years of age

The causes of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children are varied

Primary manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children are possible already in the first year of life. The cause of the pathology can be disturbances in intrauterine development, the course of pregnancy in the mother, and the negative impact of external factors after birth. Symptoms of VSD in children under one year of age may include:

• stomach ache;
• unstable stool;
• weak appetite;
• frequent regurgitation;
• poor sleep (frequent awakenings).

The next stage, characterized by a high risk of developing pathology, is the period when the child begins to go to kindergarten and come into contact with children and adults without parental help. The following symptoms are typical for VSD in a 2–3 year old child:

• increased body temperature;
• stomach ache;
• tearfulness;
• increased fatigue, weakness;
• dizziness, headaches;
• pallor or blueness of the skin.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia (VSD) in children

The presence of VSD in a 4–5 year old child may be indicated by the appearance of symptoms such as:

• frequent and sudden mood changes;
• categorical refusal to attend kindergarten or sports section;
• enuresis;
• frequent colds, regardless of whether the child attends kindergarten or not;
• apathy;
• shortness of breath, increased fatigue.

Regardless of the number and severity of symptoms, even a slight deviation from the child’s usual behavior and well-being is an indication to consult a doctor.

About the disease: causes of occurrence at an early age

The causes of the development of vascular dysfunction are associated with the stress experienced by a child or adolescent. But stress does not always mean nervous shock. These can be loads of a very different nature. What they have in common is that they all require significant effort from a growing organism. The body of a child or teenager is constantly growing and developing. In some situations, it can be difficult for the cardiovascular, nervous, and other body systems to cope with stress.

The following factors can influence the occurrence of vegetative-vascular dystonia:

• Hormonal changes in the body, especially during puberty;
• recent infectious, viral and other diseases;
• rapid growth of the skeleton and internal organs, the blood supply and nutrition of which is disrupted due to the slower growth of blood vessels;
• events that cause strong feelings in the child: exams, testing, Olympiads, sports competitions, loss of a loved one and others;
• conflicts with parents, unfriendly relationships with other people, nervous environment at home, at school, in children's groups;
• excessive mental or physical stress in an educational institution, during training, when combining study and work among students;
• early introduction of a teenager to bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol, drugs);
• unhealthy, sedentary lifestyle, sitting for long periods at the computer or TV;
• hereditary causes (if the child’s parents, grandparents also suffer from vegetative-vascular disorders);
• features of development in the prenatal period;
• character traits such as increased emotionality, sensitivity, vulnerability, and a tendency to long-term experiences.

The most common cases in medical practice are when manifestations of VSD begin to be observed at the age of 13-15 years, but disappear by 17-20 years.
However, some people experience autonomic vascular dysfunction for life. As a rule, the syndrome hardly manifests itself in everyday life, making itself felt after stress. Some people become weather dependent, especially if VSD is associated with blood pressure disorders. There are cases when VSD disappears with age, but returns after 30-35 years.

Main causes of VSD

Stress, anxiety, and conflicts with parents contribute to the occurrence of VSD in adolescents.
Problems in the body of modern teenagers are not accidental, given their lifestyle: significant stress while receiving education, sedentary pastime (mainly at the computer), non-compliance with the daily routine, etc.

The main factors contributing to the development of VSD are:

1. Changes in hormonal levels during puberty.
2. Intensive growth of the skeleton and organs, with which the blood vessels “cannot keep up”, as a result of which the blood supply to vital organs and systems suffers; their insufficient oxygen supply. Hypoxia in these organs causes many manifestations of VSD.
3. Previous illnesses, especially infections.
4. Traumatic injuries.
5. Bad habits: many teenagers start smoking and drinking alcohol at this age. A fragile body reacts to toxic influences by developing VSD.
6. A common cause of VSD is an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and neuroses.
7. Stressful situations of various levels: test control of knowledge, admission to a university, relationships with parents, conflicts with peers, psychological complexes, etc.
8. Congenital developmental anomalies.
9. Hereditary predisposition: if parents suffer from cardiovascular diseases, then the child is more likely to develop VSD.

The negative impact of any of these factors (or several at the same time) can lead to the occurrence of VSD.

Causes of the disease

The causes of vegetative-vascular dystonia are often hereditary factors, problems during pregnancy, and malformations of the nervous system. The disease begins to manifest itself in childhood, worsening during adolescence and causing discomfort to the teenager.

• bad habits;
• regular stress;
• increased mental and physical stress;
• previous chronic or acute diseases;
• congenital pathology of the nervous or cardiovascular system;
• hormonal changes in the body.

In combination, these factors lead to the fact that the VSD is activated

At this time, it is important to promptly pay attention to the child’s condition and take him to a doctor.

Most often, adolescents with an easily excitable nervous system suffer from early manifestations of the disease. For them, every stressful situation at school, at home or when communicating with peers can become a catalyst for the onset of the disease. Bad habits, disrupted daily routine, constant presence at the computer - all this influences the fact that a teenager first experiences rare acute attacks, and then the disease passes into the chronic stage.

Typically, VSD does not entail any special consequences, affecting only the general well-being as a whole.

But one of the manifestations of the disease is an increase in blood pressure (rare, but occurs in adolescents), which as a result can lead to the development of hypertension in adulthood.

Diagnostic measures. Which specialist should I contact?

Risk factors for vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents

The first thing parents need to do when identifying any symptoms in their child is to consult a doctor, in this case a pediatrician. Based on the medical history, examination and assessment of the results of basic studies (electrocardiogram, general urine and blood tests), the specialist will refer the patient for further examinations to clarify the diagnosis of VSD and prescribe adequate treatment. The following doctors may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease:

• endocrinologist;
• neurologist;
• ophthalmologist;
• cardiologist;
• otolaryngologist;
• gastroenterologist;
• urologist;
• psychotherapist.

Comprehensive diagnosis of the disease may include the following methods:

• blood test for hormones;
• ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland;
• blood pressure monitoring;
• electrocardiogram;
• ultrasound examination of blood vessels located in the brain;
• Magnetic resonance imaging;
• vegetative tests.

Symptoms of VSD in children 7-12 years old

A complete diagnosis allows you to select the most appropriate treatment that will most effectively relieve the disease.

Symptoms

VSD has not been fully studied. It is believed that the primary disorder is the nervous system, and cardiovascular changes are secondary. Since the nervous system regulates the function of all organs, including body temperature, pulse and blood pressure, secretion of sweat glands, etc., the manifestations of VSD in adolescents can be very diverse.

The most commonly observed symptoms are:

• changes in blood pressure;
• increased and unstable pulse;
• pain in the heart area;
• emotional lability;
• shortness of breath, feeling of lack of air;
• increased sweating;
• cold extremities;
• recurring headaches;
• paleness or redness of the face;
• dizziness and darkening of the eyes;
• possible fainting;
• sudden increases in temperature;
• digestive disorders (diarrhea or constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain);
• changes in appetite (increase or decrease);
• feeling of weakness, increased fatigue;
• urinary disturbance (frequent urge).

Boys are more likely to experience painful symptoms. Psycho-emotional reactions are more typical for girls.

The psyche at this age is unstable, so any difficulties and problems become stress for the body. More often, excitable, emotional teenagers, for whom any reason causes deep emotions, are susceptible to VSD.

With VSD, a bad mood is often noted, including depression, and many phobias (fears) develop. Suspiciousness, tearfulness are characteristic, hysterics are not excluded. In addition to sweating, the secretion of the sebaceous glands increases, swelling and poor tolerance of heat and cold may appear.

The acute form of VSD is characterized by attacks:

1. Hypertensive crisis: high blood pressure, headache, heart pain, increased heart rate, numbness of the limbs, trembling in the body, a feeling of fear.
2. Hypotonic crisis, manifested by decreased blood pressure, slowing of the pulse, a feeling of fear, and a feeling of a sinking heart.
3. A crisis of a mixed type, in which manifestations of hypotonic and hypertensive crises are combined.

For adolescents, low blood pressure is more typical.

Quite often, VSD in adolescence does not lead to serious consequences; only the well-being of children suffers. But in some cases, persistent hypertension subsequently develops by the age of 30.

Classification of VSD by characteristics

The classification of vegetative-vascular dystonia divides it into several types, each of which has its own set of symptoms:

Causes and signs of development of VSD in adolescents

At its core, vegetative dystonia is not a full-fledged disease. It's more like a painful condition. Systematic interruptions in the functioning of blood vessels and the nervous system cause problems in the blood supply to internal organs. Oxygen deficiency can cause problems in various body systems.

Common reasons

• Various physiological injuries;
• Hereditary predisposition;
• Hormonal changes;
• Adverse habits (alcohol, smoking, etc.);
• Neuroses;
• Diseases suffered in childhood;
• Infectious diseases;
• Heavy workload at school;
• Dependence on electronic devices (computers, smartphones, etc.);
• Problems with the central nervous system.

As a result, we can conclude that the causes of VSD in adolescence are different. Therefore, in some situations it is difficult to make a correct diagnosis.

Signs

A slow change in blood circulation leads to the fact that the organs are not sufficiently supplied with oxygen. Oxygen starvation causes surges in blood pressure, headache and tachycardia may appear. Thus, problems with the cardiovascular system appear as a result of disruption of the nervous system.

Main features:

• Depressed mood;
• Tearfulness;
• Depression;
• Suspicion;
• Suspiciousness;
• Fears appear;
• Unstable emotional background;
• Hysterics;
• Depression;
• Difficulty withstanding cold or heat;
• Decreased or increased appetite;
• Abdominal pain;
• Nausea;
• Malfunction of the excretory system;
• Heavy sweating;
• Predisposition to edema.

3 common types of syndrome

• Hypertensive type. Complaints of high blood pressure, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), numbness of the limbs. You regularly experience anxiety, panic, and fear; May cause headaches and pain in the heart area.
• Hypotonic. Periodically, there is a noticeable decrease in blood pressure, feelings of anxiety and fear, cardiac arrest, and bradycardia (slow heart rate).
• The mixed type has a combination of symptoms from groups 1 and 2 at the same time.

Teenagers are rarely susceptible to increased blood pressure; more often they experience a decrease in blood pressure.

The main reason

The psyche of a teenager is still unstable and during adolescence she can experience great stress for various reasons. Tension can be caused by difficult relationships with parents, peers and teachers, and high emotional and mental stress. Most often, children who are used to worrying about any reason suffer from the syndrome. The problem is aggravated by the lack of a daily routine, constant sitting at the computer, including at night. With permissiveness and connivance on the part of adults, cigarettes, alcoholic drinks and energy drinks, psychotropic and narcotic substances can be added to the problem factors.

Often the syndrome in adolescents does not have any serious consequences and only affects general well-being. But it develops differently for everyone. For example, frequent high blood pressure can become a chronic disease. Therefore, people who experienced vegetative-vascular syndrome in childhood are often diagnosed with hypertension by the age of 25-30.

Correct diagnosis - who to contact, how to examine

The earliest signs of dystonia most often occur in a child of preschool age (4-5 years). Parents notice frequent mood swings, lack of appetite, complaints of headaches and abdominal pain.

In adolescence, fainting and weakness may appear. If you have such complaints, you should contact your pediatrician.

The doctor conducts an initial examination of the child, measuring weight, height, examining the oral cavity, measuring body temperature, listening to breathing; talks about disturbing symptoms and their severity.

As the situation with complaints becomes clearer and the most severe ones are determined, the doctor writes out a referral for consultation with specialized specialists:

• cardiologist;
• gastroenterologist;
• neurologist;
• ophthalmologist;
• endocrinologist

Diagnostics

To confirm the diagnosis of VSD, consultation of various specialists is sometimes necessary: ​​pediatrician, cardiologist, neurologist, endocrinologist, ophthalmologist, gastroenterologist.

In addition, additional studies may be used:

Treatment of VSD during puberty depends on the individual severity of symptoms and severity. Usually the doctor begins treatment with non-drug methods.

These include:

1. Maintaining a daily routine. A teenager should sleep 8-9 hours. During the daytime, it is necessary to organize an alternation of work (study) and rest. Mental fatigue negatively affects the state of the nervous system.

Computer games and watching TV programs also belong to psycho-emotional stress, and not to relaxation. Parents should monitor and limit the time their teenagers spend watching TV and computers.

1. Physical activity and sports have a good effect on the general condition. They should be regular, but moderate, not causing fatigue. Swimming, cycling, ball games, running, table tennis, walking in the fresh air in the forest or park are suitable.
2. Rational nutrition, balanced in the content of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Preference is given to vegetable rather than animal fats. Spicy dishes, smoked foods, and pickles should be kept to a minimum. The consumption of carbonated drinks, coffee, and strong tea should also be limited.

It is advisable to ensure the consumption of foods rich in microelements. Dried fruits, beets, potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, beans, and raisins contain potassium. Nuts, carrots, oatmeal and buckwheat porridge are rich in magnesium.

1. Physiotherapeutic procedures have a positive effect:

• medicinal baths (pearl, with sea salt, pine);
• phototherapy;
• cold and hot shower;
• massage of the head, collar area;
• reflexology;
• magnetotherapy.

1. Herbal medicine: decoctions of rose hips, motherwort, lemon balm. For low blood pressure, it is useful to use ginseng, lemongrass, and aralia.
2. The psychological climate in the family and the nature of communication with parents are very important. In some cases, consultation with a psychologist may be appropriate.

If there is no effect from non-drug treatment and physiotherapy, the doctor selects a course of medications on an individual basis.

The following drugs are used:

• sedatives: valerian, glycine, glutamic acid, etc.;
• vitamin and mineral complexes;
• To normalize the function of the nervous system, nootropics are prescribed: Piracetam, Pantogam, etc.
• drugs to normalize blood pressure;
• in severe cases, antidepressants are prescribed.

2Manifestations of VSD syndrome in adolescents

Asthenic syndrome in adolescents

Symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents depend on the predominance of the sympathetic or parasympathetic departments. The first complaints of dystonia may appear at 13–15 years of age. An increase in mental and possibly physical stress often leads to the nervous system becoming exhausted. This condition is called asthenia. An active and hardworking teenager begins to complain of decreased ability to work and memory impairment.

Attention is scattered, and constant weakness and fatigue prevent you from doing the right thing. Parents may notice that for some reason the child’s fingers, tip of the tongue and eyelids begin to tremble

If before the child behaved calmly, now some strange muscle twitching has appeared. Any minor remarks can end in hysterics, and this begins to repeat itself day after day.

In the clinical picture of dystonia, symptoms of predominance of the sympathetic, parasympathetic nervous system may be observed, or the changes are of a mixed nature. When sympathy predominates, patients with dystonia complain of attacks of rapid heartbeat, stabbing pain in the heart area, sleep disturbances, and constipation. Parents may notice that the child’s appetite has increased and he begins to drink more fluids. When examining such patients, the skin is usually dry and warm. They have normal or low body weight.

Auscultation

Frequent sonorous tones are heard on auscultation, and blood pressure levels may be elevated. If the parasympathetic part of the nervous system predominates, the following symptoms of dystonia may occur: sweating and coldness of the extremities, increased oiliness of the skin, dizziness, lack of air, abdominal pain, bloating. When examining such patients, one can often identify their tendency to be overweight. Heart sounds are muffled on auscultation, the pulse is rare.

Blood pressure is within normal limits or may be slightly reduced. In the clinical picture of dystonia, a crisis may occur. Due to the diversity of manifestations of dystonia, some leading syndrome may predominate - excessive sweating, attacks of lack of air, frequent loose stools, headaches, palpitations. A teenager may complain of attacks of pain in the right hypochondrium; these symptoms may resemble biliary colic, etc.

Degrees and stages of vegetative-vascular dystonia

The classification of degrees of VSD is based on the severity of the disease:

1. Mild or latent (hidden) degree. It can be completely asymptomatic, occasionally manifesting itself as a short-term headache or tingling in the heart area in response to physical or nervous stress. Vegetative-vascular crises are extremely rare or do not occur at all. There may be intervals of several years between attacks.
2. Moderate severity. Characterized by more pronounced symptoms. Long periods of exacerbations are followed by short-term remission. Performance decreases.
3. A severe degree leads to temporary disability and even hospital treatment. The symptoms are pronounced, and periods of exacerbation become even longer. Vegetative-vascular crises often occur.

Exacerbation stage

The stages of exacerbation are seasonal and occur at those times of the year to which a person is most sensitive. In women, VSD can worsen during menstruation or pregnancy.

Winter exacerbations are associated with decreased immunity and frequent respiratory infections. VSD manifests itself in the form of cold extremities, chills, and difficulty breathing.

Spring attacks are caused by hypovitaminosis and psychological exhaustion due to the length of darkness. Characteristic signs are lethargy, apathy, panic attacks, drop in blood pressure, headache.

In summer, the negative effects of heat and high humidity cause cardiac symptoms, hyperventilation syndrome, and presyncope. Autumn contributes to the development of depression.

Reasons for development

Vegetative-vascular dystonia very often appears in the age period from 11 to 15 years. What is the reason? In addition to congenital pathologies, previous injuries and illnesses for adolescents, an additional factor that causes the development or intensifies the symptoms of VSD is the hormonal changes during puberty. It is during this period that the child’s body, subject to hormones, rapidly and complexly “grows up”; the organs and systems of his body develop unevenly. But the hormonal background at this time is still unstable and disruptions in regulation affect the vascular system. It does not keep up with the growth of the body, and symptoms of VSD appear, associated with impaired blood supply and lack of oxygen - headache, surges in blood pressure, increased heart rate, etc.

I would like to note that the main reason for the development of symptoms of VSD in adolescents is associated with the nervous system, and disruptions in the functioning of the cardiovascular system are only consequences. It just so happens that the puberty period is characterized by significant emotional stress. The psyche of a young man changes, he begins to understand himself in a new way, to perceive more acutely what is happening in his life. Conflicts, strong feelings, problems at home or at school negatively affect the nervous system of adolescents. Vegetative-vascular dystonia develops under the influence of heavy educational load, stress, and low physical activity. As in adults, in adolescents vegetative-vascular dystonia can manifest itself in the form of attacks. Their symptoms are sudden dizziness and ringing in the ears, sweating, dizziness and redness of the skin, and surges in blood pressure. Emotionally unstable children suffer especially often from attacks.

Teenagers also experience panic attacks. Their cause may be fear of not being able to cope, dissatisfaction with oneself. During the attack, trembling appears in the hands and throughout the body, nervousness, a strong feeling of fear, and the teenager sweats profusely.

Treatment of VSD in adolescence must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

Thus, among the factors due to the influence of which adolescents develop vegetative-vascular dystonia, the following can be identified:

• hormonal changes;
• problems and stresses of adolescence, conflicts at home, at school, with elders and peers;
• heavy study load and sedentary lifestyle, a lot of time spent at the computer or in front of the TV;
• infectious diseases;
• bad habits (tobacco, alcohol, drugs);
• neuroses and excessive ambition.

Features of VSD types

Each type has some features that make it possible to make a correct diagnosis and distinguish VSD from true pathologies.

Hypertensive type

VSD of the hypertensive type is associated with increased tone of the sympathetic nervous system. Patients often mistake it for hypertension. But there are significant differences between them:

• with VSD, the pressure returns to normal without the use of antihypertensive drugs, a short rest is enough;
• Blood pressure numbers do not increase over time, but remain within stable limits.

The danger of this type of VSD is that it can give rise to hypertension. In any case, with frequent episodes of increased blood pressure, differential diagnosis is necessary.

Hypotonic type

The hypotonic type of VSD is caused by increased tone of the parasympathetic nervous system. It dilates and relaxes blood vessels, which leads to permanently low blood pressure. The clinical picture is complemented by severe and frequent headaches at times of fatigue or stress. The consequence of low blood pressure is poor blood supply, and, accordingly, weakness, lethargy, and fatigue.

A feature of this type of VSD is the reaction to physical and nervous stress in the form of a drop in upper (systolic) pressure below 100 mmHg. Sometimes such patients lose the desire to move altogether.

Cardiac type

The main symptom of the cardiac type is heart pain and arrhythmias. In addition to them, the clinical picture includes additional signs that distinguish VSD from cardiac pathology:

• trembling in the arms and legs;
• migraine;
• sweating of palms and feet;
• emotional instability;
• lethargy, apathy and poor sleep.

VSD of the cardiac type should be differentiated from cardiac pathologies - coronary disease, disruption of the heart valves, myocardial infarction.

Mixed type

Isolated types of VSD are rare; most often VSD occurs of a mixed type, when the tone of the parasympathetic system is replaced by excitation of the sympathetic division of the ANS. It includes syndromes characteristic of certain types of dystonia:

• asthenic – weakness, fatigue, apathy that does not go away even after a good rest;
• respiratory or hyperventilation - lack of air, shortness of breath, feeling of tightness in the chest;
• neurogastric – disruption of the digestive system (diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, aerophagia, irritable bowel);
• cerebrovascular – dizziness, headaches, increased intracranial pressure, tinnitus;
• hyperthermia – constant low-grade fever or changes therein;
• cardiovascular – symptoms of cardiovascular pathologies (heart pain, arrhythmias, hemodynamic disorders, extrasystole);
• mental disorders – tearfulness, mood swings, fears, anxiety;
• genitourinary disorders - sudden urge to urinate, decreased libido, impotence;
• joint and muscle disorders - pain in the joints, formation of tightness in the muscles of the neck, back or lower back.

Pain syndrome is one of the most characteristic of vegetative-vascular dystonia. The pain may not have a clearly defined localization. Over time, the intensity of the pain syndrome does not increase. For a mixed type, a combination of all syndromes is not necessary. It is individual for each patient.

Symptoms and treatment of VSD in adolescents

Vegetative-vascular dystonia produces both almost imperceptible and pronounced symptoms, and therefore treatment of the disease in adolescents differs in the intensity of prescribed drugs and procedures.

Before prescribing potent drugs for VSD to a teenager, the doctor recommends changing your lifestyle: streamlining your sleep and wakefulness, eliminating sources of stress, giving up bad habits, and balancing your diet.

Non-drug treatment

Patients with hypotonic VSD should not limit their calorie intake. The diet should include foods with the maximum content of magnesium and potassium, which are necessary for vascular health. Recommended for consumption:

• buckwheat;
• unpolished rice;
• oatmeal;
• soybean, olive, pumpkin oil;
• legumes;
• walnuts, cashews;
• eggplant;
• seaweed;
• apricots;
• watermelon melon;
• citrus;
• dried fruits;
• spinach;
• rose hip;
• freshly squeezed apple and orange juices.

You should exclude salty, canned, fatty foods, give up sweets, baked goods, and coffee.

To keep blood vessels in good shape, moderate exercise is required. Shown: running, swimming, cycling, walking. You should exercise regularly and preferably in the fresh air.

With VSD, massage (cervical-collar area, back, head) and water procedures, for example, contrast dousing with water, help. Baths with essential oils of fir, rosemary, and spruce will help get rid of vascular spasms.

Relaxation practices will help cope with stress that provokes attacks of VSD. A psychotherapist can recommend breathing exercises, auto-training, muscle relaxation exercises, and meditative techniques.

Try regular meditation from Nikita Baturin:

Drug therapy

Treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents is determined by the form of the disease. For example, for tachycardia, beta blockers are prescribed, and for blood pressure increases, antihypertensive drugs are prescribed. It is important to take vitamin supplements.

Glycine and glutamic acid may be prescribed as sedatives. Although, as a rule, adolescents are prescribed medicinal herbs that have a milder effect: lemon balm, chamomile, motherwort, St. John's wort. In extreme cases, antidepressants are prescribed.

Also, a teenager can be prescribed nootropics (Phenibut, Picamilon, Pantogam, Pyritinol), which help saturate the brain with oxygen and increase the speed of impulses. Nootropics have a beneficial effect on cognitive functions and facilitate learning.

Therapeutic methods

Treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children is, first of all, non-drug therapy. Proper nutrition, adequate physical activity, walks in the fresh air, elimination of stressful situations, prevention of overwork, a psycho-emotionally healthy environment in the family are the basis of treatment.

One of the methods of non-drug treatment is physiotherapy, and it includes:

• massage;
• acupuncture;
• magnetic laser treatment;
• electrosleep;
• water procedures;
• electrophoresis;
• phytotherapy;
• aromatherapy.

Therapeutic treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents

In a situation where non-drug therapy does not bring sufficient results and the child’s quality of life continues to decline, the doctor may decide to prescribe medications, namely:

1. Cerebroprotectors that normalize metabolic processes in the brain.
2. Medicines that stimulate blood circulation.
3. Taking antioxidants is relevant when the disease is caused by the negative influence of various environmental irritants.
4. Beta blockers are recommended when diagnosing the hyperkinetic type of the disease.
5. Nootropics that activate intelligence, memory, and mental performance.
6. Antidepressants that relieve anxiety, hysteria, and help elevate mood.
7. Tranquilizers.

Even when prescribing drug therapy, it is important not to stop following non-drug recommendations. Since eliminating the disease requires a complex and comprehensive impact.

Main causes and diagnosis of pathology

VSD in adolescents occurs against the background of certain provoking factors that cause changes in the autonomic nervous system. Most often, doctors talk about the following reasons for the development of the disease:

• hormonal changes in adolescence;
• accelerated growth of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs, leading to a temporary disruption of their blood circulation through the vessels with the development of non-critical ischemia. The latter leads to a slight dysfunction of organs, which can become the basis for the developed clinical manifestations of VSD;
• infectious diseases, including viral and bacterial;
• injuries of various organs, including traumatic brain injuries;
• stress of varying degrees of intensity associated with a negative climate in the family, studies, and personal life often lead to the appearance of signs of vegetative-vascular dystonia;
• hereditary factors, etc.

All of these reasons can lead to the development of VSD in adolescence, disturbing the balance between the work of the sympathetic and parasympathetic parts of the autonomic system.

Most often, adolescents experience VSD of the vagotonic type. If this or any form of the disease develops, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician or neurologist, who can conduct a competent examination of the teenager and select the optimal medications for treatment.

The diagnosis algorithm is as follows:

1. Collection of all patient complaints from himself and his parents.
2. Collecting anamnesis of life and development of the disease.
3. General clinical and neurological examination of the patient.
4. Clinical blood test and general urine test.
5. Electrocardiography to exclude organic damage to the heart muscle and heart valves.
6. Ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland and biochemical determination of the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone and TC.
7. Angiography of cerebral vessels to exclude their damage.
8. Consultations with related specialists: endocrinologist, gynecologist, etc.

Such an integrated approach to the diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia makes it possible to determine the form of the pathology, and therefore prescribe the most adequate treatment for VSD and prevent its progression.

Classification of VSD according to the components of the nervous system

When the tone of the sympathetic nervous system predominates, they speak of VSD of the sympathicotonic type. An increase in the tone of the parasympathetic nervous system causes VSD of the vagotonic type.

Vagotonic VSD

This type of dystonia is observed mainly in childhood and adolescence. It is classified as VSD of a constitutional and hormonal nature.

The constitutional variant most often develops in children and is considered hereditary. He talks about the unstable constitution of the autonomic nervous system and is characterized by the unstable functioning of various systems of the child’s body. VSD is diagnosed in adolescents during the period of hormonal changes. This is a time of rapid growth and development of the body, with which the autonomic nervous system simply cannot keep up.

Adults suffering from VSD of the vagotonic type have decreased performance, they cannot relax and live in constant nervous tension. They are characterized by unmotivated fears, panic attacks, and anxiety. Main features:

• causeless increase in temperature;
• weather dependence;
• poor tolerance to physical and nervous stress;
• violation of the motor function of the digestive system (dyskinesia).
• swelling of the face, especially bags under the eyes;
• frequent urination due to relaxation of the bladder sphincter;
• night pain in the legs;
• “marble” skin color;
• difficulty breathing;
• slow heartbeat (signs of bradycardia);
• decrease in pressure.

VSD of the vagotonic type causes lethargy, indifference, and hypochondria (unfounded health complaints) in people. Decreased appetite does not reduce body weight. On the contrary, such patients are often obese. Fluid retention causes swelling. Constipation is spastic in nature.

Sympathicotonic VSD

VSD of the sympathicotonic type is characterized by increased excitability and impulsivity. Despite a good appetite, such people have a thin physique. They suffer from frequent surges of adrenaline, causing rapid breathing and heart palpitations. Signs of sympathicotonia:

• sudden drops or increases in temperature;
• stool disorders (constipation, diarrhea);
• frequent respiratory diseases;
• neuroses and other nervous disorders;
• dry flaky skin;
• often feeling hot;
• slight miscoordination.

Patients may have numb and cold hands and feet, they are characterized by depression, they talk and gesticulate a lot. Such people are not able to do one thing for a long time and often switch from one type of activity to another.

Main symptoms of pathology

When visiting a doctor, patients with VSD present extremely diverse complaints and exhibit a variety of symptoms. Often, precisely because of the variability of symptoms, before a visit to a neurologist, the patient manages to bypass several highly specialized specialists (for example, a cardiologist, gastroenterologist, nephrologist, etc.). The course of the syndrome discussed in this article can be of the following types:

• permanent – ​​manifestations of violations are expressed almost constantly;
• paroxysmal - manifestations of the disease occur in paroxysms and periods of exacerbations and remissions are clearly demarcated;
• latent – ​​manifestations of disorders are revealed only after diagnostics.

Video: Vegetative vascular dystonia

• from the central nervous system - dizziness and various headaches, noise in the head or ears, fainting, a feeling of the presence of a “helmet” on the head, instability when moving, deterioration in the quality of sleep, sensitivity to weather changes, visual disturbances and flashing spots before the eyes;
• heart and blood vessels - periodic or constant cardialgia of an aching, sore or stabbing nature, inability to breathe due to pain in the heart, “fading” or “stopping” of the heart, rapid or rare pulse (more than 90 or less than 60 beats per minute), racing blood pressure, redness or pallor of the skin, chilliness or sensations of heat, cold hands and feet, bluish skin, manifestations of Raynaud's syndrome;
• respiratory organs - sensations of lack of air, frequent presence of a lump in the throat, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath (sometimes to the point of suffocation), the need to take a deeper breath (the patient feels like he is not breathing properly), increased breathing problems described during stressful situations (quarrels) , exams, interviews, public speaking, etc.);
• psyche and emotions - decreased tolerance to various stresses, lethargy, drowsiness, deterioration of memory and attention, anxiety, tearfulness or apathy, various phobias (fear of closed spaces, diseases, etc.);
• digestive organs - spasms and abdominal pain of various localizations, nausea (sometimes vomiting), constipation or increased bowel movements due to increased intestinal motility, flatulence, belching of air;
• muscle and motor reactions - internal trembling, trembling of arms or legs, chills, trembling, muscle cramps;
• thermoregulation and sweating - an unreasonable decrease or increase in temperature (35.5 - 36 °C or 37 - 37.5 °C), dry skin or excessive sweating;
• sensitivity – sensations of numbness, crawling, tingling (manifestations are especially pronounced against a background of stress);
• genitourinary system - frequent urination, menstrual cycle disorders, weakened libido, lack of orgasms, erectile dysfunction and potency.

Under the influence of various unfavorable factors, a patient with vegetative-vascular dystonia may suddenly develop a crisis. Depending on the predominance of signs of disturbances in the functions of one or another part of the autonomic nervous system, experts divide crises into the following types:

1. Vagoinsular. Such a crisis occurs with a sharp activation of the parasympathetic department. Manifested by headache, dizziness, slow pulse to 45 beats per minute, hypotension to 80/50 mmHg. Art., constriction of the pupils, nausea, vomiting, increased salivation, rumbling in the abdomen and increased gas production, loose stools and frequent urge to defecate, profuse sweat and decreased temperature. After a crisis, the patient feels “broken.”
2. Sympathoadrenal. This type of crisis is caused by the activation of the sympathetic department and the release of a large volume of norepinephrine into the blood. An attack is manifested by an increase in pressure to 150 – 180/90 – 110 mm Hg. Art., dilated pupils, rapid pulse (up to 140 beats), chills and fever up to 38 - 38.5 ° C, pallor, chilliness of the hands and feet, anxiety (sometimes fear of death), restlessness and emotional excitement. After the end of the crisis, the patient produces a large volume of urine.

Crises during VSD do not always occur according to the options described above and can combine manifestations of both a sympathoadrenal and vagoinsular attack. According to the observations of specialists, it is the combination of signs of both types that occurs in clinical practice more often than one specific type. During crises, the patient may experience loss of self-control, severe anxiety and fear of death. Such severe manifestations indicate the development of a so-called panic attack.

How is VSD classified according to ICD-10?

In the international classification, vegetative-vascular dystonia is classified in the subsection “Other diseases and disorders of the nervous system.” Due to the lack of a specific localization of the VSD syndrome, codes are set depending on the prevailing symptoms. They have a range of G00-G99.

Psychoneurologists often use the code F45.3 to designate VSD, which denotes a complex of disorders of somatoform dysfunction of the VNS. The code R45 means "Other signs indicating an emotional state." VSD of the hypertonic and hypotonic type are coded as “Other psycho-emotional disorders” - R45.8. There is no special code for vegetative-vascular dystonia in ICD-10.

Reasons for the development of the disorder

Unconfident young people are more likely to experience vegetative-vascular dystonia

VSD in adolescents is a consequence of natural maturation. Absolutely every person experiences mild symptoms of this disorder during adolescence, but for most they quickly pass, while some people develop a severe form of autonomic dysfunction.

VSD appears in adolescents due to rapid body growth. The development of the nervous system during this period is inferior in speed to the development of the body, which is why there is a disruption in its functioning. In addition, hormonal changes provoke a more acute reaction to stress, causing the nervous system to become even more depleted. Thus, VSD in adolescents can be considered as a discrepancy between the development of the nervous system and body growth.

In general, this is a temporary phenomenon. With age, the nervous system “catches up” with the entire body, and its functions are restored. As a rule, the first disorders begin at the age of 12-14 years and by the age of 17, in most people the functioning of the nervous system is restored.

VSD in adolescents can become a permanent form of disorder for the following reasons:

• genetic predisposition;
• chronic stress;
• mental characteristics;
• chronic diseases;
• Unhealthy Lifestyle.

It cannot be said that VSD is a genetic disorder, but the peculiarities of the functioning of the nervous system are indeed inherited. Thus, children often inherit a tendency towards VSD from their parents, such as a predisposition to migraines or depression.

The VSD of puberty people increases against the background of chronic stress. Most often, the culprit is an unfavorable family environment, too harsh parenting methods, or a heavy workload at school or college. In such situations, it is necessary to help the child, otherwise vegetative-vascular dystonia of the pubertal period will turn into a permanent form, which significantly spoils the life of adults.

Another reason for VSD in adolescents is mental and character traits. The disease itself is psychosomatic in nature, and manifests itself due to an overly acute reaction to stress. People who are suspicious, prone to hypochondria, and dependent on other people's opinions face VSD. This disease also affects irritable people who often experience causeless anxiety.

A feature of VSD is the close connection between internal experiences and physical ailments. With such a disorder, a person can actually get sick due to severe stress. Often VSD is a consequence of real chronic diseases that deplete the body and psyche of a person. An example of such diseases is teenage diabetes mellitus, chronic tonsillitis, autoimmune diseases, and psoriasis.

Manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents are somewhat normal if they are expressed moderately and disappear with physical growth. However, an unhealthy lifestyle can affect a person’s development during adolescence and provoke the development of autonomic dysfunction. Teenage smoking and alcohol consumption, disruption of the daily routine, physical inactivity and, as a consequence, obesity - all this impairs the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, responsible for life support processes, and provokes VSD.

Prevention

Preventive measures aimed at changing lifestyle can prevent the development of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children or reduce the severity of clinical manifestations. The main preventive measures include:

• Hardening the body. Dousing with water, contrast showers, as well as barefoot or winter swimming can strengthen the immune system, as well as restore the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.
• Creating a daily routine. In childhood, to normalize biorhythms, it is important to organize a work and rest schedule. To do this, you need to ensure that the child has a full night and daytime sleep. Parents also need to avoid excessive physical activity in their children.
• Prevention of physical inactivity. Despite the fact that heavy physical activity leading to overstrain of the body should be excluded, it is recommended to choose a sport or hobby that will eliminate physical inactivity.

• Maintain personal hygiene with daily brushing of teeth, washing hands and showering.
• Creating a favorable psycho-emotional environment in the family and school. To do this, parents need to eliminate any conflicts in front of the child, and teachers need to prevent mental overstrain.

Early seeking medical help, as well as conducting a comprehensive examination, can eliminate serious complications.