When the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is out of balance, it can impact various bodily functions, particularly digestion, sleep, and energy levels. Here’s how each symptom relates:
- Diarrhea – The gut is directly connected to the nervous system via the gut-brain axis. Stress and dysregulation can lead to overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight), causing increased gut motility and loose stools (often seen in IBS or stress-induced diarrhea).
- Insomnia – Nervous system dysregulation can keep the sympathetic nervous system activated, making it hard to relax and fall asleep. Chronic stress also disrupts cortisol and melatonin levels, affecting sleep cycles.
- Nausea – The vagus nerve, which helps regulate digestion, can be affected by nervous system imbalance. When the parasympathetic system is suppressed, digestion slows, leading to bloating, nausea, and discomfort.
- Fatigue – Chronic nervous system dysregulation can drain your energy. If your body is stuck in a chronic stress response (hypervigilance or adrenal fatigue), it can lead to exhaustion and difficulty recovering, even with rest.
Other Possible Symptoms of Nervous System Dysregulation:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Brain fog
- Dizziness
- Heart palpitations
- Sensory sensitivity (light, sound, or touch)
- Muscle tension or chronic pain
Chronic stress and emotional trauma in children can cause nervous system dysregulation by disrupting the development of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which governs stress responses, emotional regulation, and bodily functions. Because children’s nervous systems are still developing, prolonged exposure to stress or trauma can lead to long-term dysregulation.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Pacific North Chiropractic today to make your child an appointment for a consultation with one of our trained and ready pediatric and family chiropractors! By addressing the root causes of Nervous System Dysregulation and providing specific, Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, you can be proactive in supporting your child’s health. Together we’d love to help your child reach their full potential, one step at a time! (425) 679-6048