Vegetative-vascular dystonia in a child. Causes, symptoms and treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children and adolescents

Autonomic dysfunction or vegetative-vascular dystonia (neurocirculatory dystonia) is a set of symptoms or a separate syndrome that can develop as a result of many diseases, without being a separate ailment. The essence of the pathology is that there are no violations of the integrity of systems and organs. All manifestations of VSD are associated only with dysfunction of the vascular and nervous systems that arise for various reasons. VSD is not a disease, but a state of the body bordering between pathology and health.

Reasons for development

Approximately 25-80% of children are susceptible to the development of vegetative-vascular dystonia. As a rule, children living in large cities have an increased risk of autonomic dysfunction. VSD can manifest itself at absolutely any age in children, but according to statistics, the average age of pathology is 7 years. Also, children are especially prone to developing neurocirculatory dystonia during puberty.

The main reasons that cause vegetative-vascular dystonia are directly related to psychological and socio-economic factors:

physical and mental stress that exceeds the norm that a child can withstand;
the child’s adaptation to new conditions in society or in school life;
large volume of training program;
fast pace of learning;
the use of new products, household chemicals and cosmetics that negatively affect the child’s health;
change of world view;
low social status of the family;
difficulties communicating with other children;
excessive demands of family members on the child;
the child’s self-esteem is too low;
a large flow of information that the child’s psyche is not able to process.

A child’s experience of situations at school and family that lead to stress adversely affects the state of the vascular and nervous system. Such disorders can fail in many systems within the body. There have been many cases of genetic predisposition to autonomic dysfunction, but the heredity factor is not the key factor in the development of the pathology.

Classification

There is no approved classification of vegetative-vascular dystonia; however, there is a division of pathology into generally accepted types. Autonomic dysfunction can be divided into two main types:

primary – the pathological condition develops independently;
secondary – develops as a result of diseases of the nervous system or internal organs (spinal cord or brain injuries, renal failure, diabetes mellitus).

Depending on the form of the disease and the nature of the course of VSD, it can be:

constant – a chronic form of dystonia that does not have drops and jumps;
paroxysmal - periodically exacerbations occur, but the rest of the time vegetative-vascular dystonia is invisible;
mixed – signs of the two above types are present;
hidden - the likelihood of developing dystonia appears only with a strong provoking factor.

The classification of disorders that occur during VSD in the cardiovascular system is as follows:

hypotonic type – blood pressure is much lower than normal;
hypertensive type – high blood pressure accompanied by a strong heartbeat;
cardiac - this type of VSD is characterized by disturbances in the heartbeat, rhythm changes, and jumps;
mixed type - includes all of the above types of violations.

There are a number of factors by which autonomic dysfunction can be divided into several more types, but the essence will always be the same: pathology can be accompanied by many unpleasant symptoms, so it is necessary to seek their exact definition from a qualified doctor and follow all his instructions.

Symptoms

Clinical manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia can be varied. There are no specific symptoms of this condition, which confuses many parents. As a rule, the manifestation of the syndrome is perceived as symptoms of various pathologies in systems or organs.

Particular attention should be paid to the child when observing the following indirect symptoms:

cardiopalmus;
frequent headaches, sometimes migraine-like;

Headache is a clear sign of the development of vegetative-vascular dystonia

sleep disorders: insomnia or drowsiness;
frequent mood swings, groundless fears and anxiety, tearfulness, apathy or anxiety;
decreased activity, loss of interest in previously favorite games, decreased mobility;
frequent sighs or shortness of breath;
sudden periodic increases in body temperature for no apparent reason;
manifestations of a dyspeptic nature (vomiting, nausea, diarrhea), abdominal pain, decreased appetite, strong or weak salivation;
profuse acne;
dry skin or, conversely, excessive sweating (disruptions in the secretion of sweat and sebaceous glands).

It is especially important for parents to carefully monitor the condition of young children who are not yet able to describe the feeling of discomfort and their unpleasant sensations.

Frequent manifestations of VSD in children are symptoms of respiratory neurosis: frequent sighs, difficulty exhaling, sudden shortness of breath, a feeling of lack of air.

Symptoms of VSD from the digestive system are as follows: nausea, vomiting, hiccups, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It may manifest itself as pain in the chest when swallowing due to spasm of the esophagus. Also a common symptom in children may be a failure of bile outflow.

Clinical symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia can also manifest themselves in the following disorders:

urination: the bladder is emptied often, with a small amount of urine or rarely, but the amount of urine is copious;
thermoregulation: during the day the child’s body temperature reaches 37.5 degrees, but returns to normal at night; may feel cold or chilly; there are likely to be different temperatures in the left and right armpits;
nervous system: groundless fears and anxiety for no apparent reason, bad mood, hysterics, depression, lethargy, hypochondria, loss of interest in current events and high fatigue.

In a state of depression, a child may complain about sensations in the body that are not pleasant to him. Senestopathies (sensations of different nature, intensity and localization) are repeated, as a rule, every day, but can also be periodic. According to children's descriptions, they may resemble a feeling of coldness, burning, pain, distension or tingling. One day the sensation is aching, the next it’s stabbing. But such subjective symptoms are not a sign of autonomic dysfunction, despite the assumptions of many parents.

Autonomic crises are characteristic of neurocirculatory dystonia. However, with a mild form of the disease, they may not even appear. Panic attacks happen unexpectedly and quickly, over the course of several minutes. Such attacks are characterized by the following reactions and sensations: suffocation, trembling in the body, palpitations, numbness, sweating, weakness of the limbs.

The development of neurosis is likely as a consequence of fears of a recurrence of a similar condition. Not only does the child’s behavior change, but there is also a noticeable deterioration in adaptation in the social environment. Sometimes a child is able to blackmail adults with his poor health.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia may be accompanied by disturbances in vision, gait, speech and hearing. Sometimes children may feel a sense of hopelessness, fear for their health and fear of death. Such manifestations can be the cause of mental and physical stress or hormonal changes. In some cases, there is a connection between crises and weather changes.

Diagnostics

In children under 12 years of age, it is quite difficult to identify such a condition of the body as vegetative-vascular dystonia without the necessary diagnostic tests. An accurate diagnosis can only be made once the child reaches the age of twelve. If the child has the above symptoms, then there is a need to conduct a number of studies:

Consultation and work of psychologists, social educators, psychotherapists to establish the causes contributing to the development of autonomic dysfunction.
Examination of a child for hereditary, acquired or congenital diseases that have not been previously identified.
Constant monitoring of the child by a pediatrician.

Differential diagnosis is necessary to exclude those ailments that are similar in their symptoms to vegetative-vascular dystonia. Prescribed in the following cases:

If you complain of pain in the heart, check for the presence of rheumatism;
If there are changes in breathing, bronchial asthma is excluded;
In case of fever, laboratory tests are prescribed to determine whether the illness is oncology, acute respiratory infections, endocarditis or sepsis;
If blood pressure is high, primary hypertension is excluded;
If there are changes of a psychological nature without additional symptoms, they are examined only by a psychotherapist.

Only when the diagnosis is finally made does the doctor prescribe adequate treatment. Until autonomic dysfunction is established, the child needs to be provided with a calm environment, a friendly and peaceful atmosphere at home and in places where the child visits.

Treatment methods

In the treatment of autonomic dysfunction, two main methods are used - non-drug and medicinal. Traditional medicine is also sometimes used, but they can only be used after consultation with a qualified specialist.

Therapy without the use of medications is intended to eliminate the symptoms of a disease with mild or moderate manifestations. In such cases, it would be advisable to adhere to the following recommendations:

Use of psychotherapy in treatment: various relaxations, family psychotherapy.
Maintaining a daily routine: walks in the fresh air, reducing training loads, sleeping for at least 8 hours, limiting the use of a computer and TV.
Take multivitamins as prescribed by your doctor.
Maintaining a proper diet, which includes a sufficient amount of foods recommended by a special diet.
It is necessary to play sports with a moderate load: outdoor games, cycling, skating, swimming, gymnastics in the morning.
A course of physiotherapy (electrosleep, electrophoresis, etc.) and therapeutic massage is recommended.
It is permissible, according to the recommendations of a doctor, to use herbal medicine with a sedative or tonic effect.

Drug therapy is necessary in extreme cases, when vegetative-vascular dystonia is severe and interferes with a full life. Drugs are selected individually and strictly according to the doctor’s recommendation.

Nootropic drugs are used to normalize the functionality of the nervous system. These drugs are: Cavinton, Piracetam, Cerebrolysin, Pantogam. Complexes rich in minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin B, are also used. Antispasmodics are used for pain: No-shpa, Papaverine. Regarding how pronounced psychosomatic reactions are, antidepressants, psychostimulants, tranquilizers, antipsychotics are used: Rexitin, Bellataminal, Amitriptyline and others.

Traditional medicine that can help alleviate the condition of a sick child:

tea from pine needles;
infusion of mulberry (branches);
a decoction of dill seeds and valerian (root);
infusion of buckwheat (flowers);
a decoction of a collection of herbs (chamomile, St. John's wort, immortelle) and birch buds with the addition of natural honey;
warm milk with natural honey before bed.

Self-diagnosis and self-prescribed treatment are strictly contraindicated for VSD. It would be best for parents to provide the most favorable conditions for the child to calmly overcome the pathological condition.

Video: Doctor Komarovsky on the treatment of autonomic dysfunction

What should nutrition be like for VSD?

Nutrition correction is one of the main points in the treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia. That is why it is necessary to increase the amount of magnesium and potassium salts entering the body. They are contained in the following products:

oatmeal and buckwheat porridge;
legumes (peas, soybeans, beans);
rose hip;
raisin;
dried apricots;
eggplant;
carrot;
salad;
nuts;
parsley.

Thanks to these products, nerve impulses are transmitted and the performance of the heart and blood vessels improves. Also, foods rich in magnesium and potassium have a beneficial effect on restoring the balance between the sections of the ANS.

With the hypertensive type of autonomic dysfunction, you need to limit the consumption of the following products:

coffee;
salt;
pickles and marinades.

Preference should be given to products that help reduce vascular tone: carrots, beans, spinach, lettuce, barley porridge, cottage cheese.

With the hypotonic type of neurocirculatory dystonia, increase the consumption of products that help increase vascular tone: coffee, tea, kefir, milk.

With the normotonic type of VSD, the diet includes foods that reduce spasms in blood vessels and improve blood flow: citrus fruits, vegetable oils, spices in moderation.

The danger of the disease and its prevention

Any manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia should not be attributed to nerves or age-related changes. It is quite possible that a child develops some serious illness. Self-treatment for VSD is excluded, since medications “for the heart” or “for blood pressure” have side effects. These effects may be particularly unpredictable in children.

When the syndrome develops gradually, the child may develop psychosomatic pathologies: physical or psychological maladjustment. Also, neurocirculatory dystonia with low or high blood pressure is the basis for the manifestation of coronary heart disease, hypertension and other serious diseases in older age.

You should be more attentive to children whose blood pressure is not normal. Constant monitoring of blood pressure levels is necessary throughout life, even in cases where there are no obvious sensations of an altered state.

Preventive measures should be aimed at preventing the impact of potential risk factors, harmonizing the child’s development, and measures aimed at overall improvement of health.

Prevention carried out consistently, timely detection of the disease and adequate treatment of disorders of the autonomic system in children can eliminate the manifestations of the pathological condition or significantly reduce them.

Important! Children who have been diagnosed with vegetative-vascular dystonia must be monitored by doctors and undergo regular preventive treatment.

Features in adolescence

Vivid manifestations of autonomic dysfunction occur in adolescent children, especially in adolescents of senior and middle school age. At this age, life is quite unstable and emotionally intense, and besides, children try to do everything: studies, friends, activities in clubs, homework.

The pathological condition in adolescents is accompanied by fatigue, drowsiness, irritability and weakness. Often the child complains of headaches, cold hands and feet, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing after minor physical exertion. A teenager may feel hot or cold; darkening of the eyes occurs (most often during sudden ascents); An increased heart rate and an attack of heart pain are often observed. Fainting is quite likely with vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents.

The disease is complicated by the fact that during the transition period, internal organs quickly grow and form in adolescents, which causes an imbalance in the body, metabolic failure and hormonal imbalances. This aggravates the course of autonomic dysfunction.

Almost all children in adolescence have disorders of somatic and autonomic functions. This is manifested by deviations that are characteristic of the period of formation of a teenager’s character and stabilization of his nervous system, that is, autonomic dysfunction. Experts note that almost 100% of teenagers suffer from this disease.. With age, the pathological condition disappears, remaining in only 15%. But if the disease is accompanied by diseases, then there is a need to undergo diagnostics and begin treatment.

So, if a child exhibits symptoms characteristic of vegetative dystonia, there is no need to postpone a visit to a specialist. It is imperative to carry out a diagnosis of VSD in order to establish how serious the child’s health condition is and to eliminate possible negative consequences.

According to statistics, vegetative-vascular dystonia in children and adolescents is diagnosed as often as in adults. Despite the fact that some experts do not consider dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system to be a disease, the symptoms of this disease negatively affect the child’s body, depleting it and reducing the quality of life. Therefore, even if minor and isolated symptoms appear, it is important to immediately contact a specialist to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.

Symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children aged 3 years

Causes of VSD in children and adolescents

Cases of diagnosing a disease such as vegetative-vascular dystonia in children are quite common. The pathology requires complex treatment and maximum parental participation. The following factors can provoke the development of the disease:

infectious diseases;
heredity;
frequent stressful situations;
negative influence of chemical and physical environmental irritants;
pathologies during pregnancy;
parents' addictions to alcohol and smoking;
excessive physical activity;
poor quality, inadequate sleep. Lack of time to rest during the day;
scoliosis, osteochondrosis and other pathologies of the spinal column;
diabetes;
poor nutrition, lack of vitamins;
decreased physical activity;
hormonal changes in adolescence;
excessive mental stress.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia symptoms and treatment in children

An exhaustive list of factors in the development of pathology has not been established by medicine to this day. However, special attention must be paid to the psychological climate within the family, since children are especially susceptible to changes in emotional tension between parents.

Classification of pathology

In order to draw up the most comprehensive and adequate treatment regimen for VSD in adolescents and children, the doctor conducts a thorough diagnosis, during which he determines the etiology, nature of the disorder, type of dystonia and characteristics of the course.

According to the reasons for the development of pathology, the following forms are distinguished:

Dishormonal, caused by changes in hormonal levels during adolescence.
Essential, as a result of heredity.
Infectious-toxic, provoked by infectious diseases, negative environmental influences and other external factors.
Neurological, provoked by disturbances in the functioning of the central nervous system as a result of overwork or stress.
Mixed, combines several factors.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia in children and its treatment

Based on the nature of the disorder, the following types are distinguished:

Predominance of the sympathetic department of the VS (sympathicotonic).
The predominance of the parasympathetic division of the VS (vagotonic).
Mixed.

According to symptoms, VSD is divided into the following types:

Cardiological. Pain, discomfort in the heart area.
Arrhythmic. Heart rhythm disturbances.
Hyperkinetic. Overload of the left ventricle due to increased blood volume, increased pressure.
Blood pressure instability.
Asthenoneurotic. Increased fatigue, loss of strength, anxiety.
Respiratory. Lack of air that occurs even at rest.
Weather dependent.

According to the nature of the course, the symptoms of the disease can be latent, paroxysmal or permanent (constant).

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.

Symptoms of the disease in children under 10 years of age

The occurrence of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children 6–8 years old is associated with the beginning of a new, serious and responsible period, namely schooling. An unusual daily routine, new acquaintances with peers, teachers, excessive mental stress and other factors provoke prolonged fatigue, which leads to disruption of organ function. VSD can be manifested by the presence of the following symptoms:

fast fatiguability;
sudden changes in mood, hysteria;
nausea, abdominal pain;
headache;
lack of air, shortness of breath;
pale skin;
thermoregulation disorders.

How to treat VSD in a child

Children aged 9–10 years are susceptible to the development of VSD as a result of a discrepancy between the mental, physical, psychological stress and capabilities and potential of the child’s body. The disease is characterized by the following manifestations:

rapid change in body weight;
increase or decrease in blood pressure;
memory impairment;
restless sleep;
rashes, itching;
depression;
headache.

It is important to understand that intrafamily relationships play a major role in the development of VSD. Communication between parents and the child and among themselves, mutual understanding, trust are important components of the healthy and harmonious development of the child in the family circle.

VSD in adolescents: features of the course of the disease in girls and boys

Adolescent vascular dystonia

The main cause of vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents is hormonal changes against the background of a discrepancy between psycho-emotional and physical development. The presence of the following factors can provoke pathology:

Increased school load. Complex and voluminous homework forces you to spend a lot of time and effort, leading to overwork and lack of sleep.
Physical inactivity. Free time is spent in front of the computer or with the phone in hand.
Consumption of information that negatively affects the fragile psyche (cruelty, violence).
Having difficulties in relationships with peers, teachers or parents.

The course of the disease in boys and girls can differ significantly. Males are more susceptible to pathology. This is due to excessive physical activity or, conversely, addiction to smoking, drugs, and alcoholic beverages. The disease can manifest itself with the following symptoms:

anxiety;
increased fatigue;
memory impairment;
headache.

In the fair sex, the disease manifests itself as a feeling of fear, hysteria, irritability, increased fatigue, tearfulness and mood swings.

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.

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:

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

Vegetative-vascular dystonia is one of the diseases that can be easily defeated once and for all by promptly seeking medical help and following all doctor’s instructions.

Symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia in adolescents

The task of parents is to implement the following recommendations for both therapeutic and preventive purposes:

Balanced diet. The menu for a child should contain foods rich in vitamins and minerals. It is important to exclude unhealthy, fatty foods, carbonated drinks, smoked foods, store-bought sweets, and fast food from your diet. The diet should be complete, containing fruits, vegetables, berries, nuts, dried fruits, cereals, meat, fish, durum wheat pasta, freshly squeezed juices, and a sufficient amount of clean water.
Full sleep. During rest, the child’s body recovers and replenishes strength. It is important to create favorable and comfortable conditions for sleep and daytime rest. Your bedtime and wake-up time should be the same every day.
It is important to ensure that the child does not become overtired. An intensive school program, a huge number of extra classes, and electives are more likely to harm a child than to help in adulthood.
Do not force, but encourage your child to play sports or other physical activities. It must be remembered that the lack of load has the same negative effect on the body as its excess. Special attention must be paid to hardening.

None of the above recommendations, medications or physical therapy methods will help a child who is under constant stress. Unhealthy family conditions, lack of mutual understanding in the team, psycho-emotional stress are the main causes of VSD. Treatment of the disease must begin with the normalization of the emotional situation. It is important to teach your child an adequate response to stressful situations, help him master self-control and increase self-esteem. Your child's health is in your hands!

Sweating, weakness, increased fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea... Modern medical science has described about 30 syndromes and about 150 complaints, on the basis of which a diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia can be established. This diagnosis is heard so often even in pediatrics that it can easily claim the title of a disease of the 21st century. So what kind of disease is this? Should parents panic if their child’s medical record shows “vegetative-vascular dystonia”?

Just something complicated

To begin with, it must be said that this disease does not pose a great danger to the life and health of the child, and many pediatricians consider it a borderline state between pathology and health. But the disease cannot be ignored - very often vegetative-vascular dystonia in children is accompanied by high or low blood pressure, which can later lead to the development of hypertension, coronary heart disease and many other dangerous diseases. VSD is an insidious disease: it is quite difficult to diagnose due to the heterogeneity and multiplicity of symptoms, because it affects several body systems at once, and it is not easy to treat.

Childhood vegetative-vascular dystonia, if we put aside all the complex medical terms, is a condition characterized by disruption of the functioning of organs or organ systems due to a disorder of nervous regulation. The disease does not cause disruption or damage to the integrity of organs and systems. All its manifestations are associated only with disturbances in the activity of the nervous and vascular systems - with vegetative-vascular dystonia, the nerve fibers do not cope with the functions assigned to them by nature, as a result of which disturbances in vascular tone appear.

It is important to promptly and correctly identify the symptoms, carry out a diagnosis with medical help and prescribe a course of treatment if the diagnosis is confirmed, because it is very difficult for a child to be in such a state.

Causes of vegetative-vascular dystonia

In childhood, the incidence of this disease ranges from 10-50% depending on age. The main reasons for the development of the disease are:

vegetative-vascular dystonia in infants up to one year old - intrauterine infections, hypoxia, hereditary predisposition and perinatal pathology, for example, a newborn with encephalopathy has a high risk of VSD, toxic effects on the autonomic nervous system;
vegetative-vascular dystonia in children under 5 years of age - toxicoinfectious (tonsillitis, caries, chronic tonsillitis) and general infections, anemia, allergic damage to the autonomic nervous system, traumatic brain injury;
vegetative-vascular dystonia in children over 5 years of age and adolescents - high psycho-emotional stress, unbalanced nutrition, hormonal changes in the body during puberty, non-compliance with sleep and wakefulness, physical inactivity, stressful situations.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. The appearance of VSD is always facilitated by the congenital inferiority of the child’s autonomic nervous system. Depending on age, the disease will manifest itself differently.

Manifestations of the disease. Symptoms

Parents and doctors sometimes have to spend a lot of time and effort to establish a diagnosis in a child, because very different clinical symptoms can be observed at the same time.

In childhood up to 1 year

In infants, the main symptoms that suggest dystonia are observed in the gastrointestinal tract. The newborn often cries, has unstable stools, accompanied by persistent diarrhea or constipation, and burps excessively and frequently. His appetite is reduced, and weight gain is insufficient. Such children often suffer from food allergies, diathesis, dermatitis of various origins, and have inadequate sleep, often interrupted by waking up crying. An infant is not able to voice his complaints, so diagnosing VSD at this age is often difficult.

In preschool age

The child’s adaptive abilities are reduced - he often suffers from infectious diseases, is prone to colds, and is weather dependent. The baby chews poorly, has low body weight, is irritable, capricious, does not find a common language with his peers, is very attached to his mother, and does not want to communicate with anyone else. The child is extremely impressionable, fearful, and has low sociability.

At primary school age

At this age, paroxysmal symptoms come to the fore. The child may suffer from night terrors, insomnia, and anxiety. Hysterics, headaches, shortness of breath, increased fatigue, gait disturbances, pale skin, sudden mood swings, poor memory, sweating or chilliness are observed. Children complain of fainting conditions, body temperature often rises to low-grade fever for no apparent reason.

During adolescence

Due to hormonal changes, children at this age may experience disturbances in the sebaceous and sweat glands, dry and pale skin, and acne. The teenager often complains of drowsiness or insomnia, increased salivation, diarrhea, hiccups and nausea. He is suspicious and anxious, not stress-resistant.

The predominance of one or another symptom makes it possible to divide VSD according to the prevailing syndrome:

cardiac syndrome. Manifests itself in disturbances of heart rhythms - bradycardia, arrhythmia, tachycardia. Sometimes an increase or decrease in blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, a feeling of lack of air, dizziness when changing the position of the body in space, discomfort in the heart area are recorded;
respiratory syndrome. The child complains of shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, a feeling of lack of air, and it is difficult for him to inhale or exhale. Breathing is noisy and deep;
thermoregulation disorder syndrome. Manifests itself in sweating or chilliness, body temperature rises to 37.5 -37.7 degrees and lasts for several hours;
neurotic syndrome is characterized by prolonged periods of apathy, bad mood, depressive states, anxiety, susceptibility to fears or hysterics. The child is often prone to demonstrative behavior;
Vegetative-vascular crises. The child may complain of difficulty urinating, pain in the stomach or intestines, and numbness in the limbs. Laboratory tests reveal an increase in glucose levels. The skin is pale or, on the contrary, reddened, “marbled” skin is observed.

If a child exhibits any symptoms characteristic of vegetative-vascular dystonia, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination of the body. Self-medication will not only bring no benefit, but can also further harm the child’s health.

The word is up to the doctors

All parents dream of their child being healthy. Therefore, the first thing to do if you suspect your baby has VSD is to contact a pediatrician. To make an accurate diagnosis and treatment, you may need to consult a neurologist, endocrinologist, or psychologist. Only the doctor decides how to treat vegetative-vascular dystonia in children, and it is up to the parents to strictly follow his recommendations.

Treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children is carried out mainly by non-drug methods, and as part of the diagnosis it is necessary to establish the factors that contributed to the development of the disease. Parents often try to treat their child with alternative medicine, but this can only be done after consulting a doctor.

Doctors turn to drug therapy only in cases of very severe disease, when its manifestations prevent the child from leading a normal lifestyle. It is symptomatic. The main goal of drug treatment is to restore the normal functioning of the nervous system. The main drugs for treatment are:

group of nootropics: “Pantogam”, “Actovegin”, “Cavinton”, “Piracetam”. Nootropics help improve metabolic processes in nerve cells and restore microcirculation in the brain
multivitamin complexes with micro- and macrominerals. Particular priority is given to the administration of B vitamins;
antispasmodics and analgesics are prescribed for pain.

Non-drug therapy involves massage, especially often of the collar area, physiotherapeutic procedures, exercise therapy, swimming, acupuncture, herbal medicine, electrophoresis, and psychotherapy. The sanatorium-resort treatment has proven itself to be excellent.

Traditional medicine offers its own recipes for normalizing conditions with VSD. Mint tea will help relieve attacks of irritability, a decoction of valerian will calm the nervous system and make it easier to fall asleep, milk with honey before bed will improve the quality of your sleep.

Prevention of VSD

It is necessary to normalize the child's daily routine. Avoid psycho-emotional stress; the time allotted for sleep should be at least 7-8 hours. The child should receive a fully balanced diet. Pay special attention to products containing increased amounts of vitamins, potassium and magnesium.

Limit your child's time at the computer or TV screen. Instead, give him the opportunity to be outdoors more often, regardless of the time of year and the temperature outside your window.

Smoking among teenagers, unfortunately, is not uncommon. Nicotine provokes vascular spasticity, which can further aggravate the course of vegetative-vascular dystonia. It is necessary to convince the teenager of the need to say goodbye to the bad habit.

The child must lead an active lifestyle. It is advisable to play sports that do not involve much physical activity: volleyball, swimming, cycling, skiing.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia has many symptoms and manifestations, many of them appear sooner or later in almost every child, but this does not mean that it is vegetative-vascular dystonia. In no case should parents independently establish a diagnosis and engage in treatment; this is the prerogative of the doctor. And the task of parents is to create optimal conditions for his growth and development!

From this article you will learn the features of the course of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children, how this disease manifests itself in childhood (3–12 years). Effective conservative and traditional treatment methods, prognosis for recovery, and preventive measures are described.

Causes and symptoms of the disease in children at different ages

Vegetative-vascular dystonia is a pathological condition of the nervous system, which entails a disorder of other important organ systems: cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous, digestive. According to statistics, every 4th child aged 3 to 12 years is susceptible to this disease. But doctors are confident that in fact more than half of young schoolchildren suffer from symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia. The insidiousness of this pathology lies in the extremely complex clinical picture: the variety of seemingly unrelated symptoms significantly complicates the diagnosis of the disease.

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The danger of vegetative-vascular dystonia in childhood is the increased risk of developing severe complications:

complex psychosomatic diseases (hypertension, ulcers, cholelithiasis, pancreatitis, obesity, cardiac dysfunction);
psychological and physical disorientation of the child in society and space;
periodic crises - a temporary exacerbation of symptoms (a sharp deterioration in the physical well-being and emotional state of a small patient).

This disease can be treated by a pediatrician, neurologist, or cardiologist.

Causes and symptoms of VSD at different ages in children

Age 3 years

The first signs of dystonia may appear as early as 3 years of age. This is a psychologically difficult age for a child, when he begins to attend kindergarten and makes contact with strangers for the first time without constant help and support from his parents. Symptoms of VSD for preschoolers include:

pale and bluish skin;
headache;
dizziness;
fatigue, drowsiness, tearfulness;
nagging pain in the abdomen;
increase in body temperature.

The situation is aggravated by a decrease in the protective functions of the immune system due to frequent colds and infectious diseases in the first year of attending kindergarten.

Ages 7–12 years

The next peak of incidence occurs at the age of 7–12 years; many children do not tolerate their first school years well, and the increased physical and intellectual stress on their fragile psyche. Poor nutrition, lack of sleep schedule, psychological pressure from parents and teachers, a large amount of new information, problems communicating with classmates - all this leads to the development of VSD in children of primary school age.

At this age, vegetative-vascular dystonia most often has a paroxysmal nature, the peak of exacerbations occurs in the autumn-winter period (the time of maximum spread of viral and colds). Most often, parents do not take the child’s complaints seriously, attributing all symptoms to fatigue, stress, lack of sleep, colds, etc. At this point, VSD progresses and, in the absence of treatment, causes irreparable harm to the life and health of the baby. You should pay attention and consult a doctor immediately if you observe the following signs of dystonia in your child:

insomnia, restless sleep;
fast fatiguability;
memory impairment;
dizziness;
motion sickness on the road;
headache;
sudden changes in mood, tendency to depression, anxiety, neuroses, hysterics, depressive state;
arrhythmia;
high or low blood pressure;
lack of air, shortness of breath, cough;
problems with thermoregulation (chills, intense sweating);
nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea;
sudden change in body weight (the child quickly loses weight or gains weight);
marbled skin color, rashes, swelling, itching.

All of the above symptoms individually can indicate completely different diseases, so the appearance of one of them does not necessarily indicate the presence of vegetative-vascular dystonia, but is a reason to consult a doctor and undergo a diagnosis of the body. If a set of complaints from this list is detected, the pediatrician draws a conclusion about the possible development of VSD and prescribes a series of diagnostic measures.

It is very important for parents to listen to their children, monitor their physical and emotional state, so as not to miss important signals at the initial stage of development of pathology of the autonomic nervous system.

Treatment methods for vegetative-vascular dystonia

VSD is a complex disease that requires an integrated approach to treatment. It is very important to reduce the load on the nervous system and introduce healthy lifestyle rules. Properly selected individual treatment, started on time, can save the child from pathologies forever. A late visit to the doctor usually leads to the fact that the VSD becomes a constant companion of the child and remains in adulthood.

In the case of chronic dystonia, one can only achieve temporary remissions of the disease, but when the body weakens (cold, infectious disease, stress), the symptoms again make themselves felt.

Non-drug treatment

Doctors prefer to treat vegetative-vascular dystonia in children with non-drug methods. Pediatricians recommend that parents do everything to strengthen the autonomic nervous system:

Protect your child from stressful situations as much as possible. To do this, you should create a warm and positive atmosphere at home in which he will feel comfortable.
Reduce the intensity of your school workload as much as possible. You can refuse electives and extra classes, organize breaks while doing homework.
Create and maintain a daily routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, with at least 8 hours of sleep. It is necessary to create a balance in the ratio of physical work-intellectual work-entertainment-rest. Stop using TV, tablet, computer, mobile phone.
Try to give your child as many positive emotions, warmth and love as possible. Tell him more often that you love him, laugh, praise him for his achievements, walk together, visit interesting places. A positive psycho-emotional state of a small patient is the key to a complete recovery.
Proper and regular nutrition will help quickly restore the strength and protective functions of the body. Add natural sources of vitamins and minerals to your diet - fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes. It is necessary to avoid overly salty, spicy, smoked, fried and fatty foods, fast food, carbonated drinks, and confectionery.
As prescribed by your doctor, undergo a course of physiotherapeutic procedures - electrophoresis, electrosleep, water procedures, massage, magnetic laser treatment, acupuncture, herbal and aromatherapy.

Lifestyle recommendations for children with vegetative-vascular dystonia
Types of physiotherapy for children with vegetative-vascular dystonia

Relief of the patient’s condition usually occurs within a week of such treatment, the child’s emotional background improves, the mood rises, sleep becomes sound, and performance is restored.

Gradually, over the next couple of months, all other symptoms of VSD in children disappear. It is very important not to stop treatment at the first signs of recovery; relapse of the disease can cause much greater harm to health.

Treatment of VSD with drugs

In severe cases, if vegetative-vascular dystonia was diagnosed in the late stages, is difficult to treat, and the symptoms interfere with normal life, doctors prescribe medication. The pediatrician selects medications and dosage individually, taking into account age, body weight, body characteristics, the presence of concomitant diseases, and the severity of symptoms. The most commonly prescribed drugs are from the following:

tranquilizers (sedatives);
antidepressants (to improve mood, relieve anxiety and hysteria);
nootropics (stimulating mental performance, intelligence, memory);
blood circulation stimulants;
neuroprotectors.

Drug treatment cannot be used independently; it must be part of comprehensive measures to eliminate vegetative-vascular dystonia in children. It will be effective only if it has a comprehensive effect on the autonomic nervous system.

Prognosis and further prevention

Timely diagnosis, effective and complete treatment make it possible to normalize important organ systems: autonomic, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular and respiratory, eliminate all unpleasant symptoms, and completely and forever get rid of VSD. It is necessary to make a lot of effort to create comfortable psychological and physical living conditions for the child, then dystonia will not leave negative consequences.

monitor your child’s daily routine;
maintain a sleep schedule;
follow the recommendations of proper nutrition;
toughen up the child;
try to spend as much time as possible with him in the fresh air, preferably outside the city;
it is very important to maintain a peaceful and calm atmosphere in the family;
teach your child self-control.

A condition in which vascular tone is “unbalanced” due to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system is vegetative-vascular dystonia in children. The pathology is accompanied by a number of characteristic symptoms in the nervous, endocrine, digestive and cardiovascular systems. The disease does not appear before the age of three, and girls are most at risk.

If you suspect your child has this pathology, consult a doctor immediately - further development of the disease can lead to bronchial asthma, stomach ulcers and hypertension.

We have to consider the causes of the disease, its main symptoms and accompanying pathologies. Particular attention will be paid to the treatment and prevention of dystonia. VSD in children manifests itself in a decrease in vascular activity - hence numerous systemic disorders. It’s sad, but VSD is diagnosed even in apparently healthy children. Let's try to understand the essence of this phenomenon.

Causes of pathology

First you need to understand that the human body needs strict regulation of the autonomic system. Internal organs and blood vessels are controlled by the autonomic nervous division. The slightest disturbances in interaction lead to disastrous consequences - VSD in children and adolescents with a whole “bouquet” of concomitant pathologies.

Here are the main causes of violations:

rapid development of technogenic civilization;
introduction of household chemicals and genetically modified products;
hereditary predisposition;
pregnancy pathologies;
features of the constitution;
brain injuries;
increasing the intensity of information flows;
socio-economic factors (family conflicts, increased pace of life of parents, frequent moves, stress at school);
chronic infections (tonsillitis, caries, sinusitis);
mental illness;
toxic nerve damage;
diseases leading to metabolic disorders in the body (heart and kidney pathologies, diabetes mellitus).

The main cause of dystonia is a stress factor. A high school load and an increased volume of educational programs are the main enemies of the modern child. It is difficult to avoid this, so it is worth thinking about relaxation and a change of activity. Below we will look at the symptoms of the disease.

What symptoms can be used to identify VSD?

Pathology most often manifests itself during periods of active growth of the baby - these intervals are associated with the rapid development of the autonomic system. Dominance of vagal tone has clinical consequences.

Children get tired quickly, cannot do long-term work, they are apathetic, indecisive and sleep poorly. The symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia in children are not limited to this.

Here is a complete list of signs of the disease:

lack of appetite with excess body weight;
fear of closed spaces and stuffy rooms;
decreased activity of the baby;
timidity;
cold intolerance;
unexplained pain in the abdomen;
chilliness;
feeling of lack of air;
constant sighs, “lump in throat”;
nausea;
allergic reactions;
marbling of the skin;
vestibular disorders;
high level of sweating;
urge to urinate (frequent), strong salivation;
puffiness under the eyes;
constipation of spastic nature.

Negative phenomena in the area of the heart and blood vessels are also observed. Blood pressure decreases and heart rate becomes slower. There is an illusion of an “increase” in the size of the heart.

The cardiogram may show symptoms of sinus bradycardia.

If VSD is accompanied by sympathicotonia, you should pay attention to the following signs:

decreased pain sensitivity;
hot temper;
mood swings (lability);
absent-minded attention;
feeling of heat, increased heartbeat;
predisposition to neurotic conditions;
paresthesia in the limbs;
pale skin, cold extremities, white dermographism;
unmotivated increases in temperature;
polyuria.

Related pathologies - a danger that is not immediately visible

There are threats closely associated with the development of VSD. We are talking about related pathologies. Vegetative-vascular dystonia in children can be accompanied by rather strange symptoms, among which are viral diseases, high blood pressure, and stress conditions.

These signs may indicate the development of the following ailments:

infectious and inflammatory heart diseases;
arrhythmia;
Itsenko-Cushing syndrome;
heart disease (changes in the heart muscle);
bronchial asthma;
Graves' disease;
mental disorders.

The course of the pathology can be accompanied by a large number of syndromes (there are about thirty of them in total). With senestopathy, pain “wanders” to different points of the body, changing its intensity and location. On the digestive side, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and a banal loss of appetite may be observed.

If thermoregulation is impaired, you will experience regular (daily) low temperatures.

Here are a couple more examples:

vascular syndrome (arterial hypertension and hypotension);
cardiac syndrome (heart pain, disruptions in the normal functioning of the heart);
respiratory syndrome (shortness of breath, difficulty breathing);
neurotic syndrome (changeable mood, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances and frequent headaches).

Methods for diagnosing the disease

Sometimes the disease proceeds in a calm rhythm, but sudden crises also occur. Among the signs of a vagoinsular crisis, it is worth noting suffocation, sweating, nausea, migraine, pallor, and increased blood pressure. Sympathoadrenal crisis is characterized by increased urination, fear of death, fever, chills, tachycardia and headache.

If these signs are present, the child urgently needs to be taken to the clinic, where he will be examined by the following doctors:

pediatrician;
cardiologist;
ophthalmologist;
neurologist;
endocrinologist

Doctors make a diagnosis of VSD after possible organ damage of a different nature has been excluded. A number of instrumental studies are prescribed - Dopplerography, rheovasography, rheoencephalography. These procedures help to localize the lesion - the autonomic system.

The ECG results are carefully examined:

shortened PQ interval;
flattened T-wave;
ST segment located below the isoline level.

Modern treatment technologies

Effectiveness is achieved through a combination of preventive, medicinal and non-medicinal methods. Before starting treatment for vegetative-vascular dystonia in children, protect your baby from stressful situations. Stop swearing, reduce the impact of school load as much as possible. Love and peace - this is what should reign in the family.

Plan your baby's daily routine, balance entertainment, relaxation and physical activity. A positive mood is the key to therapeutic success. Manual therapy, therapeutic massage courses, water treatments and physiotherapy are recommended.

Medicinal herbs can also help, but here it is necessary to give preference to herbs with a sedative effect:

lure;
Eleutherococcus;
aralia;
motherwort;
ginseng;
valerians;
Leuzsee;
hawthorn.

Non-drug therapeutic effects

Excessive drug load can lead to unnecessary problems in the child’s body. Therefore, it is always worth starting the treatment of VSD in children with non-drug methods of influence. Actually, this therapy is considered basic. We are talking primarily about compliance with the regime:

walks in the open air;
9 hours sleep;
limiting the academic load (lessons need to be done, but breaks are organized between them);
physiotherapy;
balanced healthy diet;
psychotherapy;
reducing the time spent by the child near the computer and other electronic devices associated with information flows (mobile phone, TV);
moderate physical activity;
water procedures;
therapeutic massage and electrophoresis;
music lessons;
acupuncture.

Herbal medicine is also recommended - the use of lemon balm (a neurotic form of the disease) and chamomile (digestive disorders). Bromine electrophoresis (the collar area is treated) and electrosleep are considered effective physiotherapy procedures.

Taking vitamin complexes will be a good help.

Among the useful sports disciplines are:

tennis;
swimming;
skates;
skis;
outdoor games.

Treatment with medications

Medicines are not always prescribed by doctors and only in combination with non-drug effects. If the child is able to lead a full life, doctors prescribe a balanced set of medications.

If the disease is advanced, the child must undergo a medical examination, which includes an endocrinologist, a psychiatrist, a therapist, an ophthalmologist and a neurologist (for girls, a gynecologist is added).

The following medications may be prescribed:

blood circulation stimulants;
neuroprotectors;
antioxidants;
blockers;
antidepressants;
tranquilizers.

All medications are prescribed by doctors individually. There is no “universal” set of medications. Avoid self-medication in every possible way - this can lead to irreparable consequences for your child’s health.

Antidepressants and tranquilizers are prescribed only as a last resort, the main emphasis is on sedatives.

Prevention

Preventive measures include not only the correct daily routine and normalization of the psychological climate within the family. Doctors recommend balancing the little patient’s daily diet. Introduce legumes, berries, cereals, cabbage, fruits and vegetables, vegetable oils, nuts and dried fruits.

You should limit your consumption of the following foods:

salt;
smoked meats;
fatty fish and meat;
carbonated drinks;
sweets;
tea and coffee (if there is a tendency to hypertension).

Harmonious development of personality will prevent the progression of pathology. Focus on good nutrition and general strengthening activities. Occasionally, you can pay attention to visits to a family psychologist. The set of proposed measures will eliminate the recurrence and progression of paroxysms, and in the long term will completely normalize the patient’s health.

Many people interested in modern medicine have one way or another heard the term “vegetative-vascular dystonia”. Some do not consider this condition a disease, and some - especially doctors - take it very seriously, since it occurs in both adults and children.

In modern medicine, the essence of VSD is usually considered as a failure of the controlling or regulatory function of the autonomic nervous system in relation to the work of organs and systems in the body, which results in a violation of vascular tone. It is very important to correctly identify the symptoms in a timely manner, with the help of specialists, diagnose and prescribe treatment for this difficult condition, especially if vegetative-vascular dystonia occurs in children.

Changes in the function of an organ during VSD are not associated with its disease: there are no anatomical, structural, or organic changes. The function of the organ can be restored in full when normal regulation by the autonomic nervous system is restored.

In the medical literature, both names are used: both (VSD) and vegetative dystonia syndrome (SVDS). They indicate the same state.

Causes of VSD in children

Psycho-emotional stress at school can cause the development of VSD.

The following are the causes of this condition:

psycho-emotional factors: complexity of educational programs, stressful situations in the family or school, non-compliance with the daily routine, overwork, tendency to depression, fears, constant feelings of anxiety;
hormonal changes in the body (especially during adolescence);
traumatic or toxic effects on the nervous system;
genetic predisposition not only to the development of VSD, but also to the severity and severity of manifestations;
child (spending long periods of time at the computer, watching TV programs).

Symptoms

The clinical manifestations of VSD are very diverse. There are no specific symptoms of this condition, which sometimes leads to misconception among parents: manifestations of the syndrome are perceived as signs of pathology of various organs and systems.

Parents should be alerted to neurocirculatory dystonia, as this syndrome is sometimes called, if the child exhibits the following indirect signs:

frequent changes in mood, tearfulness, fears and anxiety or apathy, loss of interest in favorite games, unreasonable anxiety in the child’s behavior;
decreased activity and mobility of the child;
sleep disturbances such as drowsiness or insomnia;
dry skin and impaired secretion of the sebaceous and sweat glands, profuse acne;
sudden periodic increases in temperature;
dyspeptic manifestations (, vomiting), increased or decreased salivation, loss of appetite,;
shortness of breath, frequent sighs.

Particularly important is the attentive attitude of parents towards young children, who are not always able to describe the unpleasant sensations and discomfort that arise.

VSD can be primary (develop independently) or secondary, that is, one of the manifestations of diseases of the internal organs - or the nervous system (traumatic damage to the brain or spinal cord). The severity of VSD depends on the number and severity of symptoms.

There are these types of VSD in the form of cardioneurosis, which manifests itself more often in children:

hypertensive type - the main symptom is;
hypotonic type – predominates;
cardiac type – cardiac arrhythmia is prevalent in the clinic;
mixed type - symptoms of all the above forms can be observed in different combinations.

If symptoms from the respiratory system predominate ( for respiratory neurosis) children experience a feeling of lack of air, difficulty exhaling, frequent sighs, sudden.

From the digestive system I am worried about spasmodic pain in the abdomen, dyspeptic symptoms, and hiccups. Esophageal spasm may manifest as chest pain that gets worse with swallowing. Often in children, the flow of bile is disrupted ().

Other clinical manifestations of VSD may include:

violations of thermoregulation: during the daytime the child’s temperature rises (but not higher than 37.5 C), and at night it normalizes; there may be different temperatures in the right and left armpits; children feel chills and a constant feeling of cold;
disturbance of urination: the bladder is emptied rarely, in large portions, with straining, or, conversely, urination is frequent, in small portions;
neurotic manifestations (to varying degrees): groundless anxiety and groundless fears, hysterics, bad mood, lethargy and loss of interest in events, a tendency to depression, increased fatigue, hypochondria (constantly looking for manifestations of the disease).

When children are depressed, they complain of unpleasant sensations in the body, which they call pain. Such sensations, varying in localization, intensity and nature - senestopathy - may appear occasionally, but more often they are repeated daily. Children sometimes describe them as a burning sensation, a feeling of cold, tingling, or distension; One day they are stabbing, the next they are aching. These subjective sensations are not associated with the disease, although many parents may regard them as such.

VSD is characterized by vegetative crises (in mild cases they may not appear). Such an attack (panic attack) occurs suddenly and develops very quickly, within a few minutes. It is characterized by unpleasant sensations and reactions: “choking”, palpitations, trembling in the body, sweating, weakness in the limbs, and a feeling of numbness.

Possible disturbances in gait, hearing, speech, and vision. Very characteristic is the fear of death, fear for one’s health, and a feeling of hopelessness. Physical and mental stress and hormonal changes can provoke a crisis. In some patients, there is a connection between crises and meteorological (weather) changes.

Children may develop neurosis due to fear of a recurrence of the attack. This changes the child’s behavior and worsens his social adaptation. Some children may involuntarily blackmail their parents with their poor health.

Diagnosis of VSD

Diagnosis of vegetative-vascular dystonia is very difficult, since it is necessary to exclude a number of different diseases in which similar manifestations are possible. Parents are forced to:

conduct a series of laboratory and instrumental examinations for the child;
get consultations from doctors of various specialties (cardiologist, neurologist, pediatrician, psychologist and even psychiatrist).

Treatment of VSD

Two treatment methods are used: drug and non-drug, with the main method being non-drug therapy. In some cases, treatment and monitoring of the child is carried out not only by a pediatrician, but also by a cardiologist, neurologist or neuropsychiatrist.

Non-drug treatment
The main components of non-drug therapy:

: adequate night sleep (at least 8 hours), alternating work and rest, walking outdoors (at least 2 hours), limiting time (no more than 30-60 minutes, depending on age) spent at the computer and TV.
Outdoor sports (swimming, skating, skiing, tennis, volleyball, cycling, etc.).
Massage, hardening of the body.
Herbal medicine (herbal teas).
Psychotherapy (auto-training), listening to music (except rock music), hypnosis in severe cases.
Acupuncture, electrophoresis on the collar area.

Drug therapy

Medicines are used in cases of severe vegetative dystonia. The goal of drug treatment is to restore normal function of the nervous system. For this purpose, the following are used: Pantogam, Cavinton, Cerebrolysin, Piracetam. These drugs improve nerve cells and...

Vitamin-mineral complexes are also used, B vitamins are especially important. For pain, children are prescribed antispasmodics (Papaverine, No-shpa).

Depending on the severity of psychosomatic reactions, tranquilizers or psychostimulants, antidepressants, neuroleptics can be used: Bellataminal, Rexitin, Amitriptyline, etc. These drugs are prescribed only by a neuropsychiatrist.

Herbal medicine is also widely used in the treatment of children - decoctions or infusions of herbs: calamus, ginseng, lemongrass, eleutherococcus, licorice, golden root, zamaniha, etc. The drug “Kratal for children”, which contains extracts of motherwort and hawthorn, taurine ( amino acid). The drug has not only a calming effect, but also a mild cardiotonic effect.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia in children is a whole complex of functional disorders of various organs due to a violation of the regulation of their activity by the autonomic system. In medical terminology, this condition is also called neurocirculatory dystonia. Depending on the function of which organ is impaired, the pathology is manifested by the following problems:

respiratory;
neurotic;
cardiac symptoms;
vascular crises;
violation of thermoregulation.

Vegetative-vascular dystonia is a secondary syndrome that is not considered by pediatricians as an independent disease. According to Dr. Komarovsky, the diagnosis of VSD is established only in underexamined children. Its manifestations should be dealt with by specialized specialists in order to identify the real cause of the ailment.

Depending on the signs that arise, the child is examined by: a neurologist, cardiologist, endocrinologist. Conditions caused by VSD cannot be ignored. Autonomic dysfunction can give impetus to the development of the following dangerous diseases: hypertension, stomach ulcers, bronchial asthma.

Therefore, at the first signs of illness in a child, it is imperative to contact a medical institution. The pediatrician will prescribe a thorough examination, the results of which will determine the cause of the pathological condition.

A hereditary type of VSD is often encountered in pediatrics. Typically, the likelihood of developing the disease is transmitted through the maternal line. Also, the occurrence of vegetative-vascular dystonia in a child can be caused by problems with the health of the mother during pregnancy and childbirth. Toxicosis, hypoxia, birth trauma, intrauterine infections - all this can lead to vascular problems in newborns in the future.

In addition to the hereditary factor, the cause of neurocirculatory dysfunction can be various traumatic conditions. Conflicts in the school community, family, excessive physical or mental stress, regular stress - all this can lead to the development of abnormalities at the vascular level. Other causes of VSD include:

unfavorable weather conditions;
dangerous environmental situation in the region of residence;
low physical activity;
violation of the daily routine and principles of healthy eating;
infectious and endocrine diseases;
allergies;
hormonal changes in the body during adolescence.

Most often, autonomic disorders are diagnosed during periods of active child growth (5-8 years, puberty). This is explained by the high load on the body and the lability of the nervous system.

Symptoms of VSD

Since the disease affects many systems of the human body, vegetative-vascular dystonia manifests itself in children with various symptoms. In modern medical literature, approximately 30 different syndromes and about 150 signs of the disease are described. Parents in this situation should be alert to the following manifestations:

frequent mood swings, hysteria, anxiety;
decreased motor activity of the baby;
increased fatigue;
sleep problems such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness;
disruption of the sebaceous glands, acne in adolescence;
dyspepsia (nausea, diarrhea), abdominal pain, loss of appetite;
shortness of breath, breathing problems;
headaches, dizziness;
memory problems;
marbled skin syndrome.

It is especially important to pay attention to the listed signs of vegetative-vascular dystonia in young children. They are not always able to describe the existing unpleasant sensations, this or that discomfort. When visiting a doctor, you must try to reliably describe the existing problems so that the specialist can distinguish VSD from other diseases.

Types of vegetative-vascular dystonia

Neurocirculatory syndrome has no special classification. However, doctors usually divide pathology into several types:

Vascular. Depending on the characteristics of blood pressure, in turn, hypotonic and hypertensive types are distinguished.
Cardiac. VSD is accompanied by a change in heart rhythm.
Mixed. Disorders of many body systems are identified.

Depending on the nature of the disease, the following types of VSD occur:

constant – has a chronic course, there are no sudden changes in condition;
paroxysmal – clearly manifests itself during periods of exacerbation;
mixed – depending on external factors, it proceeds sluggishly or acutely;
hidden - occurs only under the influence of a specific stimulus.

Depending on the prevalence, local, systemic and generalized neurocirculatory dystonia are distinguished. According to the severity, VSD is divided into mild, severe and moderate.

Diagnosis of VSD

Diagnosing vegetative-vascular dystonia in childhood is quite difficult. Babies are usually very active and are characterized by frequent mood swings. This may be accompanied by increased heart rate and loss of appetite. All these factors make it difficult to diagnose the pathology. Only careful attention to the child and constant monitoring of his condition will help to suspect abnormalities and consult a doctor as quickly as possible.

The child will be prescribed a special examination, including determination of pathologies of many body systems. To do this, you need to consult a neurologist, cardiologist, ophthalmologist, endocrinologist. In addition, the following will be appointed:

electrocardiogram - a study of the correct functioning of the heart;
rheovasography - determination of the intensity and volume of blood flow in the vessels of the extremities;
rheoencephalography – study of the vascular system of the brain;
Holter monitoring – daily monitoring of heart function.

Based on complaints, as well as after examining the test results, the doctor can differentiate VSD from other pathologies accompanied by similar symptoms: endocarditis, arterial hypertension, rheumatism, bronchial asthma.

Treatment of VSD in children

An integrated approach, including preventive, medicinal and non-medicinal agents, contributes to the rapid elimination of symptoms and the patient’s recovery. In children, the result of treatment of vegetative-vascular dystonia depends on the chosen method of therapy.

During therapy, as recommended by doctors, the child should be protected from possible stressful situations. It is necessary to control physical and mental stress, as well as plan the correct rest regime. Walking in the fresh air, a balanced diet, music lessons, and water treatments help well. Positive emotions of the baby are the key to the success of therapy.

Drug therapy

Medicines are prescribed only in addition to non-drug treatment. Depending on the identified deviations, the following remedies may be prescribed:

stimulating cerebral and general blood circulation;
antioxidants;
vitamin complexes;
neuroprotectors;
sedatives;
in severe cases, antidepressants.

There is no universal course of treatment for VSD. All drugs are selected individually and only by a doctor. You should not treat the disease on your own. Incorrectly selected medications can only aggravate the situation and lead to unpredictable complications.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapeutic procedures are used to restore the functions of the nervous system and vascular tone. They also help improve blood circulation in organs and tissues and activate metabolism. Most often prescribed:

electrophoresis on the neck area with aminophylline or papaverine;
paraffin applications on the collar area;
magnetic therapy and laser;
acupuncture.

Water procedures cope well with the symptoms of the disease. The most effective:

cold and hot shower;
swimming;
turpentine, radon, iodine-bromine baths;
therapeutic shower (Charcot, circular, fan).

Another effective method of treating VSD is massage. It helps reduce nervous tension, normalize sleep, and reduce headaches. If the disease is of the hypertensive type, massage of the collar area and lower extremities is effective. When hypotonic type pathology develops, general or acupressure massage is used.

Herbal medicine

Medicinal herbs are no less effective for VSD. In this case, preference is given to herbal preparations with a sedative effect. The most effective tinctures are:

motherwort;
valerian;
hawthorn.

They relieve nervous tension and help normalize sleep, which in itself promotes recovery. It is possible to use folk remedies - sedative herbal preparations, but still, before doing this, you need to consult a doctor.

Psychotherapeutic trainings

In some cases, consultations with a psychotherapist help to cope with pathology much more effectively than drug treatment. It is necessary to explain to the young patient that the symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia are not so terrible. All difficult moments will someday be replaced by good and positive ones. It is necessary to teach the child, in a state of anxiety and restlessness, to switch to positive memories.

Sometimes breathing exercises help in a stressful situation. Young patients 7-8 years old are able to independently perform breathing exercises, which will help normalize their psycho-emotional state. In difficult cases, the use of hypnosis and other psychotherapeutic techniques or even family therapy is required.

Prevention

To prevent VSD in young children, it is necessary to first monitor the situation in the home. She should be calm, friendly, without daily stress. A child or teenager should feel safe and comfortable at home. In order for a child to independently cope with nervous and mental stress, it is necessary to instill in him a sense of self-esteem and self-confidence. It is very good if the baby learns to cope with his emotions on his own.

The daily routine is of great importance. Properly balanced periods of rest and study will help develop self-discipline and will contribute to the development of self-organization. In order for the baby to be less distracted by his own negative emotions, you need to fill the time free from study and rest with additional activities, ones where the child can show his talent. Success in creativity helps to develop self-confidence and gain a positive attitude in life.

Forecast

In most cases, neurocirculatory dystonia in children has a favorable prognosis. This disease does not lead to serious heart pathologies. However, symptoms of VSD in children can significantly complicate their lives. Poor health, increased fatigue, weakness - all this leads to decreased activity, decreased academic performance, and poor appetite.

A healthy lifestyle will help your child cope with emerging problems. In this case, drug therapy is not necessary. By following all of the above recommendations, you can quickly cope with the symptoms of vegetative-vascular dystonia.

It is important to promptly and correctly identify the symptoms, carry out a diagnosis with medical help and prescribe a course of treatment if the diagnosis is confirmed, because it is very difficult for a child to be in such a state.

Causes of vegetative-vascular dystonia

In childhood, the incidence of this disease ranges from 10-50% depending on age. The main reasons for the development of the disease are:

vegetative-vascular dystonia in infants up to one year old - intrauterine infections, hypoxia, hereditary predisposition and perinatal pathology, for example, a newborn with encephalopathy has a high risk of VSD, toxic effects on the autonomic nervous system;
vegetative-vascular dystonia in children under 5 years of age - toxicoinfectious (tonsillitis, caries, chronic tonsillitis) and general infections, anemia, allergic damage to the autonomic nervous system, traumatic brain injury;
vegetative-vascular dystonia in children over 5 years of age and adolescents - high psycho-emotional stress, unbalanced nutrition, hormonal changes in the body during puberty, non-compliance with sleep and wakefulness, physical inactivity, stressful situations.

Manifestations of the disease. Symptoms

Parents and doctors sometimes have to spend a lot of time and effort to establish a diagnosis in a child, because very different clinical symptoms can be observed at the same time.

In childhood up to 1 year

In preschool age

At primary school age

During adolescence

The predominance of one or another symptom makes it possible to divide VSD according to the prevailing syndrome:

cardiac syndrome. Manifests itself in disturbances of heart rhythms - bradycardia, arrhythmia, tachycardia. Sometimes an increase or decrease in blood pressure, headaches, dizziness, a feeling of lack of air, dizziness when changing the position of the body in space, discomfort in the heart area are recorded;
respiratory syndrome. The child complains of shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, a feeling of lack of air, and it is difficult for him to inhale or exhale. Breathing is noisy and deep;
thermoregulation disorder syndrome. Manifests itself in sweating or chilliness, body temperature rises to 37.5 -37.7 degrees and lasts for several hours;
neurotic syndrome is characterized by prolonged periods of apathy, bad mood, depressive states, anxiety, susceptibility to fears or hysterics. The child is often prone to demonstrative behavior;
Vegetative-vascular crises. The child may complain of difficulty urinating, pain in the stomach or intestines, and numbness in the limbs. Laboratory tests reveal an increase in glucose levels. The skin is pale or, on the contrary, reddened, “marbled” skin is observed.

If a child exhibits any symptoms characteristic of vegetative-vascular dystonia, it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination of the body. Self-medication will not only bring no benefit, but can also further harm the child’s health.

The word is up to the doctors

group of nootropics: “Pantogam”, “Actovegin”, “Cavinton”, “Piracetam”. Nootropics help improve metabolic processes in nerve cells and restore microcirculation in the brain
multivitamin complexes with micro and macro minerals. Particular priority is given to the administration of B vitamins;
antispasmodics and analgesics are prescribed for pain.

Prevention of VSD

Limit your child's time at the computer or TV screen. Instead, give him the opportunity to be outdoors more often, regardless of the time of year and the temperature outside your window.

The child must lead an active lifestyle. It is advisable to play sports that do not involve much physical activity: volleyball, swimming, cycling, skiing.