Pure Autonomic Failure (PAF)

What is it? Pure Autonomic Failure (PAF) is a rare condition where the autonomic nervous system (which controls automatic body functions) gradually stops working properly.

Common symptoms 

  • Low blood pressure when standing (dizziness or fainting).
  • Symptoms are worse in the morning, after meals, in heat or after exercise.
  • Reduced sweating.
  • Urinary problems (frequency, urgency, or difficulty emptying).
  • High blood pressure when lying down.

Other features 

  • Fatigue and reduced tolerance for activity.
  • Neck or head discomfort that improves when lying down.
  • In men, erectile dysfunction may be an early symptom.

Key points 

  • Symptoms develop gradually, usually later in life.
  • It affects blood pressure control and other automatic body functions.
  • It is different from other neurologic conditions like Parkinson’s disease or Multiple System Atrophy (MSA, Shy-Drager syndrome).
Seeking help from specialist

Key Takeaways

  • These conditions affect how your body regulates blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Symptoms often occur with standing or stress.
  • If symptoms are frequent or severe, evaluation by a specialist is important.