Press Release

Small Changes in Big Network May Signal Autonomic Disorder

January 28, 2013

Because the system affects more than one organ, its care requires special knowledge of each of those organs—and a comprehensive physical exam process focused on reaction to stimuli, like the pupil's changes in different degrees of light. 

It's the reason your heart beats. It's the reason why your stomach digests food. It's the reason that you shiver if you're in a cold room and sweat if you're in a hot room.

-Neurologist Safwan Jaradeh, MD, director, Autonomic Disorders Program, Stanford Hospital & Clinics

Neurologist Safwan Jaradeh, MD, is the director of Stanford's autonomic disorders program. Board certified in clinical neurophysiology, electrodiagnostic medicine and neurology, Jaradeh is a rare specialist in autonomic disorders like that affecting patient Marc Laderriere. Worldwide, he estimates, there are only about 150 physicians with expertise in a biologic system most take for granted because its activities happen, when all goes well, without conscious thought.

It is not uncommon for me to see patients who come with a large volume of medical records, that when sifted through, show a common thread.

-Neurologist Safwan Jaradeh, MD, director, Autonomic Disorders Program, Stanford Hospital & Clinics

I feel I am in good hands—there's no doubt. We'll get there.

-Marc Laderriere, patient, Stanford Hospital & Clinics
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