What is dysautonomia? Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for health conditions related to the autonomic nervous system . The term “autonomic” refers to the self-governing nature of this system, which controls involuntary functions that we do not consciously regulate . This covers a wide range of bodily functions, such as breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and much more. Some of the most common forms include POTS, orthostatic hypotension, vasovagal syncope and autonomic dysreflexia. What Causes Dysautonomia? Autonomic dysfunction can be caused by both primary and secondary factors. Primary causes include genetic or degenerative illnesses, while secondary causes may be due to injury, infection, or environmental factors. While some people with a form of dysautonomia can trace their illness to a single cause, often it can be a culmination of many factors. In this blog, post we'll take a look at some of the most common. Genetics Some people are born with a predisposition for dysautonomia. Inherited conditions, such as Familial Dysautonomia, affect the development of the autonomic and sensory nervous systems. There is also a correlation between hypermobility and dysautonomia . However, people from all backgrounds can have a higher likelihood of developing various forms of dysautonomia due to family history of illness and their genetics. Infections Some infections can lead to autonomic changes. Recent research suggests that long COVID is a form of dysautonomia, with a worsening of symptoms while standing and physical exertion. Other infectious causes of dysautonomia include: HIV, Lyme disease, tetanus. Toni Bernhard, author of " How to be Sick " describes her illness beginning with a flu she caught while on holiday in Paris. Autoimmune diseases Several autoimmune conditions can cause dysautonomia, including: multiple sclerosis lupus Sjögren disease Neurological diseases Neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease and other degenerative conditions, can cause autonomic dysfunction. Some of the dysautonomia symptoms from Parkinson's included heat intolerance and blood pressure issues. Injuries Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, can result in dysautonomia with symptoms such as changes in heart rate. Trauma Just as with physical trauma, emotional trauma may also lead to dysautonomia. Your ANS can be divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which work together to help you prepare for and respond to stress; trauma can cause an imbalance in these systems. The book " The Body Keeps the Score " by Bessel van der Kolk offers insight to the importance of the mind and body connection. Diabetes Diabetes may damage the nerves that regulate your internal organs, specifically from high glucose levels. This condition is called autonomic neuropathy, and it can cause various symptoms depending in which internal organ systems are affected. Toxins Working in environments with toxic substances, such as lead or poisons can lead to autonomic dysfunction. 16-73% of chronic alcohol abusers suffer from autonomic dysfunction. Cancer Cancerous tumours can affect your brain or spinal cord, which may lead to autonomic dysfunction. A tumour near your hypothalamus, pituitary gland, or brainstem is especially likely to disrupt the ANS functions of these structures. Medications Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, may lead to dysautonomia. Several medications might also worsen orthostatic hypotension, such as: diuretics vasodilators some calcium channel blockers To find out about the process of getting a dysautonomia diagnosis: Click Here

Address : Mill Rd, Arundel BN18 9PA, United Kingdom Location The River Arun runs through the historic town of Arundel. This location offers a peaceful place to stop with a view of the 11th century Arundel bridge, as well as access to other local amenities. At this location you will find: Riverside views Waterside Café Blackfriars Ruins Arundel Museum Parking The Mill Road Car Park is located right next to the Waterside Café and Museum. This is a large car park, with additional overflow parking if needed. Parking can still be a challenge during peak tourist seasons. There are 7 disabled parking bays. Opening Times: Mon-Sun 08:00 - 18:00 Prices: Up to 3 Hours - £2.50 4 Hours - £3.50 Max - £5.00 Accessibility With the car parks close proximity to the cafe, museum, and ruins, this location is ideal for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. The distance from the car park to the ruins and river view is about 50 metres. This location is suitable for wheelchair users with mostly level, but bumpy paths. There is one slight incline in the path to the ruins (pictured at the bottom of the page). The Arundel Museum is wheelchair accessible. The public toilets are located adjacent to the museum, facing the car park. Conclusion Overall, this location has a lot to offer visitors of all abilities. With the use of the Mill Road Car Park you are able to easily access the cafe, museum, ruins, and benched area with a view over the river. With the cafe alongside the river, this location makes and ideal place to stop for lunch. The museum is a great place to learn about Arundel, especially with the rest of the historic town being very hilly and less accessible for some visitors. Unfortunately the Blackfriars Ruins were blocked off during my visit Path to Blackfriars Ruins and benched area with views of the river.

Address : Marine Drive West, Regis Ave, Bognor Regis PO21 2FZ Location Located in Bognor Regis, Aldwick Beach is a quieter alternative to the main Bognor beach. As with all beaches in this area, the upper section is pebbled, and as the tide goes further out, it reveals sand. There are two cafes at this location, as well as the Marine Park Gardens , which run alongside the Marine Drive. What's there? At Aldwick Beach, you will find the Aldwick Beach Cafe, with its lunch tables overlooking the sea. When visiting the Marine Park Gardens , you will find colourful flower beds, an 18-hole putting green, plenty of seating, and water fountains. There is also the West Park Cafe, located just off the beach. West Park is a large open green space with its own café, public toilets, children’s play area, and pay-and-display parking. Parking There is pay-and-display parking along the Marine Driv e next to the beach. There are no specified disabled parking spaces. Blue Badge users park for free. Accessibility Aldwick is ideal for visitors who struggle to walk long distances, with plentiful parking next to the beach. The Marine Park Gardens and both cafes are accessible for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. Aldwick Beach is not the best for wheelchair users, with only two dropped kerbs located at either end of the parking and a longer distance needed to travel to reach the Beach Cafe. The main Bognor Beach is more wheelchair and mobility scooter friendly, with accessible ramps and parking. The West Park Cafe is dog friendly. Conclusion Aldwick Beach is ideal for visitors who struggle to walk long distances and offers a quieter alternative to more popular beaches nearby.

Address : King's Parade, Bognor Regis PO21 2QA, United Kingdom Location The Marine Park gardens are located to the west of Bognor Regis and run alongside Aldwick Beach . At the Gardens, you will find flower beds full of colour, an 18-hole putting green, plenty of seating, and water fountains. There's two cafes near the gardens. The Aldwick Beach Cafe is just across the road facing the beach, and the West Park Cafe located across the road at the western end of the gardens. Parking There is pay and display parking along the Marine Driv e. visitors can al so park on Kings Parade road; these are also pay and display, but have a two-hour limit. There are no specified disabled parking spaces around the gardens. The lower paths along Kings Parade road, as well as the parallel parking spaces, may be more accessible than those of the Marine Driv e for some visitors. Blue Badge users park for free. Accessibility The paths at this location are level and smooth, ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters. With plenty of benches, the Marine Park Gardens are accessible for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. The nearest public toilets are located across the road at the western end of the gardens, at the West Park Cafe. Conclusion Overall, the Marine Park Gardens offer a relaxing, quiet space accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. The gardens can be a great place to stop while visiting Aldwick Beach .

What is Dysautonomia? Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for health conditions related to the autonomic nervous system . The term "autonomic" means ”self-governing,” referring to the system that controls involuntary functions you don’t consciously think about. This includes breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and more. Tips for Managing Dysautonomia There are many types of dysautonomia, and there's no quick fix, but with some lifestyle adjustments things can get easier. This list aims to give some useful tips and tricks to help manage and keep unwanted symptoms at bay. Hydration Staying well hydrated can help with many forms of dysautonomia, especially those related to blood pressure, such as POTS. Adults are recommended to drink 3 litres throughout the day to maintain a healthy level of hydration. This can also include diet changes to foods with more fluid, such as custard, cream, yoghurt, ice cream, sorbet, ice pops, ice lollies, ice cubes, slushies, jelly, soup, gravy and sauces. Hydration tablets can also be a useful way to maximise the hydration you receive while drinking. Compression clothing Another way to aid the body in maintaining blood pressure is by wearing compression clothing. Compression stockings are designed to squeeze the legs to help blood flow back to the heart. It is recommended to use medical grade level 2 for optimum results. While stockings are most commonly recommended, studies have found that compressing both legs and abdomen was more effective than compressing only the legs. Abdominal binders may be more effective than using stockings alone. Small meal sizes After eating a large meal, lots of our blood is redirected to the stomach to aid in digestion, which can cause a rise in unwanted symptoms. Therefore , it is recommended to eat several smaller meals throughout the day rather than two or three large ones . Click here to learn more about a POTS friendly diet. Keeping cool Heat can be a trigger for people with autonomic dysfunction. To keep cool, you can use: Portable fans Water spray bottle Cooling towels, mats, pillows and vests Pace yourself Whether you are doing housework or spending time outdoors, pacing yourself can help stop fatigue and burnout . T aking things slowly can pay off in the long run, minimising long term symptoms after pushing yourself too hard. For example, when cleaning, make a plan to work in sections and small bursts, or even spread the task over multiple days. Pacing yourself during social occasions and giving yourself time to recover can also be very important as well. Connecting in alternative ways, such as video calls and online messaging, can help keep you connected while taking less of a physical strain. Meditation Meditation can help to activate the vagus nerve and calm an overactive nervous system. Meditation and mindfulness practices can lower heart rates and are an accessible form of self-care everyone can use, with plenty of resources online. Prioritise rest Prioritising rest is important for everyone, but especially those with chronic illnesses. Sleep disorders   can be common in individuals with autonomic dysfunction. You can maintain good sleep hygiene by following a nighttime routine, avoiding screens before bed, and practicing relaxation techniques. For more information on sleep hygiene: Click Here Learning to say no Saying no is an important form of self-care, as you are putting your health first. This can be difficult at first, especially if prior to your illness you always made yourself available. Saying no when you are feeling strained and need a break can stop flare-ups and an increase of symptoms in the long run. Using mobility aids The use of physical aids such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters can help to increase your mobility and independence. Alternatively, the use of electric bikes can be a great option for those who feel uncomfortable using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. E-bikes can also offer low-level exercise and aid users in travelling greater distances independently. If you struggle to walk long distances, a lightweight camping stool can be useful when there's a lack of benches. Ask for help If you have recently become sick, asking for help can feel very difficult, especially if you were previously an independent person. Asking for help will lower your physical strain, and your friends and family will most likely be happy to lend a hand. Avoid Triggers Dysautonomia has many triggers; some of the most common include: Heat Standing for long periods of time Physical exertion Large meals Dehydration Stimulants such as tea, coffee, or alcohol Keeping a diary of your health and daily activities can help you recognise possible triggers . Some symptoms of dysautonomia can be delayed and only appear a few days after their cause; for example, you might feel okay after a walk and then have a increase in symptoms two days later. Medication There are many lifestyle changes that help to control dysautonomia symptoms, but seeing a doctor is very important. A doctor can diagnose you and offer medication to help manage your illness. It's usually a combination of lifestyle changes and medication that will help balance your illness. For more information on the process of getting a dysautonomia diagnosis: Click Here

Address : Shirley Way, CR0 8PN Location Millers Pond is a 4 acre green space in the suburbs of Croydon. There are plenty of places to sit throughout the park with a view over the pond, as well as an open field ideal for dog walkers. There are many wildfowl to discover at Millers Pond, as well as bats in the evenings. The ducks and geese are very friendly at this location, so don't forget your duck food. This park has been awarded the Green Flag Award.  To find out more about the award visit  https://www.greenflagaward.org/ Facilities Ornamental pond in a small park Lunch tables Toilets Accessibility There is no car park at this location, but the pond can be accessed via Worcester Close, Farm Lane, and Shirley Way. During the day, there are plenty of places to park, with minimal walking distances. The paths at this location are level and smooth, ideal for pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The pond's small size makes it ideal for those who struggle to walk long distances. There are plenty of benches located throughout the park. There are public toilets at this location, but they were closed during my visit. Conclusion Overall, Millers Pond is an ideal place to stop for lunch or visit with young kids. The pond tends to be quiet and relaxing, with few visitors passing through. This location is suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

Address : Mote Ave, Maidstone ME15 7RN Location Spread over 440 acres, Mote Park has attractions for visitors of all ages, including its lake, play areas, miniature railway, cafe, and much more. The park is open from 8am to dusk. Mote Park is a Green Flag Award winner. To win, parks must meet high standards and have excellent facilities. The park also came in third in the 2015 People's Choice Award for their favourite green flag park. For further information and to find other Green Flag parks and open spaces, visit the Green Flag Award website. History In the 13th century, it is believed the area was used as one of the earliest deer parks in Kent. Between 1793 and 1800, the original Mote House was demolished and a new mansion was constructed, which can still be seen today (pictured below). The park has been visited by many royals, including King Henry V, King Edward IV and Queen Elizabeth I . Henry VIII visited the park with Anne Boleyn on 17th of July 1531 prior to their marriage. For more information on the history of Mote Par k: Click Here What's there? At Mote Park, you will find open green fields and woodlands, along with picturesque views over Mote Lake. There's also a cafe and plenty of activities for children of all ages. Park Facilities include: Three car parks Accessible public toilets Adventure play-zone Maidstone Leisure Centre Miniature railway Cafeteria Angling club Sailing club Football, rugby and cricket pitches Cycling routes BMX Tracks Skate Park Squash club The cafe is open from 9am to 5pm from April to September, and 9am to 3pm October to March . Parking There are three car parks, all with disabled parking spaces. The main Mote car park (next to Café) has 13 disabled bays. Ticket 8am - 10am Up to 6 hours after 10am Over 6 hours Daily Ticket Free £2 £12 Residents Annual Season Ticket -- £40 -- Parking is free for blue badge holders. Accessibility Mote Park has smooth, level paths throughout its grounds; with the only exception being the long, sloped ramp down to the lake. Accessing the lake may be challenging for wheelchair users, pictures of the path are included at the bottom of the page. There are frequent benches and lunch tables at the entrance of the park, near the car park and cafe. There's also a large number of benches at the lake. The cafe, playground, skatepark and Go Outdoor Adventure Park are adjacent to the main car park, with a maximum walking distance of 100 metres. There are plenty of places to sit throughout the play areas. The distance from the car park to the lake is around 100 metres, with a few places to stop along the way. After the main entrance and lake, benches do become less frequent. The park is suitable for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. The park is also dog friendly. Path to the lake. Stairs from cafe, and ramp which loops around. Conclusion Overall, Mote Park is perfect for people of all ages and abilities. It can be busy on school holidays but parking hasn't been a problem for me. When visiting during the week, the park is picturesque and relaxing. Ramp to lake

What is dysautonomia? Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for health conditions related to the autonomic nervous system . The term “autonomic” refers to the self-governing nature of this system, which controls involuntary functions that we do not consciously regulate. These include breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and more. Some of the most common forms include POTS, orthostatic hypotension, vasovagal syncope and autonomic dysreflexia. Symptoms While every form of dysautonomia is different, in this list we will include some of the most common symptoms: Feeling dizzy or fainting: Feeling dizzy or fainting is a common symptom of many forms of dysautono mia. Dizziness can often be caused when the autonomic nervous system does not regulate blood pressure effectively. Abnormally fast or slow heart rate: Another common symptom of dysautonomia, especially POTS , is an abnormal change in heart rate when transitioning from laying down to standing up. Anxiety: People with autonomic autonomic dysfunction can be very sensitive to norepinephrine , which plays an important role in the body’s “fight-or-flight” response. In addition, the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms us, may not counteract rushes of hormones such as adrenaline. Fatigue: Feeling fatigued is a common feature of many chronic illnesses. Fatigue isn't just feeling tired; it's persistent and doesn’t go away with bed rest. This can be caused by the extra strain on the body, due to a dysregulated nervous system. Excessive sweating or not being able to sweat: Another sym ptom of dysautonomia is difficulty regulating your body's internal temperature, as well as heat intolerance. Breathlessness: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is a commonly reported symptom in dysautonomia patients.  One study indicates that at least half of dysautonomia patients experience shortness of breath. Feeling thirsty: Studies have also shown that some individuals with autonomic dysfunction can have a reduction in the amount of fluid volume in the body, called hypovolemia . Having trouble swallowing: Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia , occurs in some people with many different autonomic nervous system disorders. Common causes of dysautonomic dysphagia include a stroke , head injury , or  dementia . Headaches: Frequent and long-lasting headaches are a common symptom of autonomic disorders as well as long COVID . Insomnia: Sleep disorders can be common in individuals with autonomic dysfunction. These can be caused by symptoms such as breathlessness and adrenaline surges; which can often be triggered by lying at certain angles. Also, s leep-promoting neurons found in the central autonomic network, which control sleep cycles, can be dysregulated. Click here to learn how to sleep well with POTS Nausea and diarrhea: Dysautonomia affects the autonomic nervous system’s signalling to the stomach, this can cause a condition called Gastroparesis . Vision problems: Your autonomic nervous system doesn 't involve your vision directly. However, it does manage the width of your pupils (re gulating how much light enters your eyes) and the muscles your eyes use to focus. A form of dysautonomia called "Familial Dysautonomia" can cause sight problems due to progressive damage to the optic nerve in the eyes.  Getting a Diagnosis Dysautonomia can be a difficult to diagnose, with many symptoms that may appear unrelated at first. A diagnosis normally comes when your doctor has ruled out other illnesses. For more information about the process of diagnosing dysautonomia: Click Here To learn some useful tips and tricks on managing dysautonomia symptoms: Click Here

Address : Hurst Park Car Park, Molesey, West Molesey KT8 1ST Location Located a few miles from Hampton Court Palace, Hurst Park is an open green space popular with dog walkers and families with young children, but it's also accessible for less able visitors. At Hurst Park you will find: Open fields River views Basketball court Children's playground Public toilet Parking The car park is large and has 3 disabled parking spaces. Parking at this location is free, and there is a height limit of 2.1 metres. Opening times: Monday to Friday - 7.30am Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays - 9am The car park is locked at dusk. Accessibility Hurst Park has plenty of benches located throughout its grounds, about every 25-50 metres, making it ideal for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. Benches are most frequent towards the end of the car park, where the road meets the river. The paths are suitable for wheelchair and mobility scooter users, but they are a bit bumpy, with puddles in places. Image of the river side path is included below. There is a single accessible toilet near the car park entrance. Accessible Public Toilet Conclusion Hurst Park is an accessible place to visit for people of all ages and abilities. Its large fields, kids play area and river views make this location ideal for dog owners and families with young children. Hurst Park is also a good place to stop for lunch, with plenty of benches throughout the grounds.

What is dysautonomia? Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for health conditions related to the autonomic nervous system. The term “autonomic” refers to the self-governing nature of this system, which controls involuntary functions that we do not consciously regulate. Some of the most common forms include POTS, orthostatic hypotension, vasovagal syncope and autonomic dysreflexia. What causes dysautonomia? There are several possible causes of autonomic dysfunction ; these can be divided into primary and secondary causes. Examples of primary causes are genetic or degenerative illnesses, while secondary causes could be injury, infection, or environmental factors. While some people with a form of dysautonomia can trace their illness to a single cause, often it can be the culmination of multiple factors. Getting a Diagnosis Dysautonomia can be a challenge to diagnose, with many symptoms that may appear unrelated at first. A diagnosis normally comes when your doctor has ruled out other illnesses. Another challenge is the lack of awareness of the illness , even in the medical field, so finding a spec ialist familiar with the condition can be very helpful in obtaining answers more quickly and accurately. Tests Tilt table test A tilt table test is the most common, and normally the final, test they use when diagnosing POTS and many other forms of dysautonomia. Healthcare providers monitor your vitals while the table you’re on tilts at various angles. This allows them to find out why you faint and how your blood pressure and heart rate are affected by a change of positions. Electrocardiogram Because a typical EKG tracks your heart’s electrical activity for a very short time, it probably won’t pick up irregularities that only happen once in a while. It’s like when your internet is acting up but seems fine when someone comes to repair it. To capture erratic symptoms, your provider can give you: Holter monitor: You wear this device for 24 to 48 hours to get a continuous recording of your heart’s electrical activity for that time frame. Event monitor: You wear this device for a week or more and may need to click a button to start recording when you feel symptoms. Blood Tests Doctors will use blood tests to test for antibodies that indicate an autoimmune disorder or levels of certain neurotransmitters like catecholamines; these can help diagnose dysautonomia while also ruling out other illnesses. Symptom specific tests While getting my diagnosis, I also had a lung function test, physical stress test, x-rays, and ultrasounds. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor will use a variety of tests to rule out other possible causes. How long does it take? Th e diagnostic journey for dysautonomia can be long, complicated, and frustrating . The delay in diagnosis and misdiagnosis often occurs because symptoms overlap with other conditions. This is why finding a specialist can be useful, saving time, and getting you treatment sooner. In December of 2013, Dysautonomia International conducted a survey of over 700 POTS patients and found that only 25% of patients are diagnosed within the first year of symptoms.

The Surrey Hills offer some of south-east England’s most beautiful countryside. The hills were one of the first landscapes in the country to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1958. While known for its many walking and cycling trails, there's also a lot to see for less-able visitors, with many of the locations on this list having accessible viewpoints, c afé s and discovery centres. Newlands Corner Located 4 miles east of Guildford, Newlands Corner is right in the heart of the Surrey Hills. This location is accessible for all ages and abilities, with great views from the top of the hill without even needing to leave your car. Facilities include: Café Discovery centre Kids play area Dormouse Trail - suitable for wheelchairs Public toilets Click here for more information Reigate Hill Reigate Hill offers a panoramic view of town of Reigate tand the surrounding area, including Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 10 kilometers away. The lights from the town and airport make this location especially popular during the evenings, as well as during the day. Standing at a height of 234.7 metres with a drop of 100.1 metres, the hill provides spectacular views. Benches are scattered around the edge of the hill, as well as outside the café. A viewpoint adjacent to the car park and café displays information about the distance between your location and various points of interest. Facilities include: Café Public toilets Viewpoint Click here for more information Box Hill Box Hill is located in the North Downs, approximately 19 miles south-west of London. This location has views across the surrounding countryside, with the main viewpoint just 100 metres from the car park. Box Hill is also home to lots of wildlife and plants, including the Adonis blue butterfly and bee orchid. This location has paid parking, but National Trust members and blue badge holders park for free. At the National Trust Visitors Centre you will find: Cafeteria Information centre Gift shop Toilets Lunch area For more information: click here Denbies Hillside Denbies Hillside is situated just 4 miles from Box Hill . This location tends to be less busy than the previous recommendations, with fewer facilities, but it still offers great views. Denbies Hillside has paid parking, but National Trust members and blue badge holders park for free. At this location, you will find a small car park, a lunch area and the Café La Creme coffee van. Click here for more information Visit our map page to find more accessible locations near you. Our posts include info on parking, walking distances, wheelchair accessibility and places to stop and rest during your visits. Thank you for joining the community!

Address : Canal Rd, Rochester ME2 4QS Location Strood Waterfront Park is located along the river Medway in Rochester. With its play area, gym and views over the lake, this location is ideal for visitors of all ages. What's there? Park Facilities include: Children's play area Outdoor gym Garden Tennis court River views At this location, you can also view the U-475 Black Widow Submarine moored in the river medway. For more information, click here . Parking To access the waterfront, you can park along Canal Rd, Rochester. Parking here is free. There is no parking from 10:30-11:00 am Monday to Friday. Visiting after 11 or anytime on the weekend is unrestricted. There are no disabled parking bays. Accessibility This location is ideal for people who struggle to walk long distances, with plenty of places to sit throughout the park as well as facing out over the river. Pictures are included below. The ground is level and suitable for wheelchair users. Conclusion Overall, this location is accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. The waterfront park is an ideal visit with the family with its free parking, kids play area, as well as the unique view of the submarine.