15 Memes That Nail What It's Like to Have Dysautonomia

Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for medical conditions in which the autonomic nervous system (ANS) malfunctions. Since the ANS controls automatic bodily functions such as heart rate or temperature regulation, those with a form of dysautonomia may experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, fainting, unstable blood pressure, abnormal heart rates or inability to regulate temperature. Some of the more common types of dysautonomia are postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), neurocardiogenic syncope and multiple system atrophy.

Living with dysautonomia can be challenging both physically and emotionally, and can affect a person’s ability to do everyday tasks – even activities most people don’t give a second thought to, like taking a shower or even just standing up. But sometimes, humor can be a powerful coping mechanism for dealing with all the ridiculous symptoms and side effects dysautonomia throws your way. If laughter helps you cope, you may enjoy the following memes.

1. When you can’t stand up without getting a massive head rush:

2. When there’s more salt on your plate than food:

3. When you try to manage your symptoms but they beat you to the punch:

4. When you’re trying to keep the sweating under control:

5. When you try to explain what dysautonomia involves:

6. When standing up sends you right back down:

7. When other people just don’t get it:

8. When dysautonomia makes exercise difficult:

9. When your heart is always racing:

10. When people are surprised that you’re still battling the same symptoms:

11. When you’re trying to explain dysautonomia (and any comorbidities) to a new doctor:

12. When you have to add salt to everything:

13. When you get a head rush and have to do a quick handstand:

14. When you doctors brush off your symptoms as “just anxiety“:

15. When poor circulation means your hands double as ice packs: