Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy in a Post-Menopausal Female with Long-standing Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension: A Clinical Case Study

Abstract

Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy (CAN) is a significant yet under-recognized complication of long-standing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). This case report describes a 58-year-old female with a 15-year history of T2DM and hypertension presenting with classic symptoms of autonomic dysfunction, including orthostatic hypotension and gastroparesis. Clinical evaluation revealed a blunted heart rate variability (HRV) and a significant orthostatic BP drop. This case highlights the physiological transition from metabolic derangement to autonomic nerve fiber degeneration. It underscores the importance of early screening for HRV in chronic diabetic patients to prevent sudden cardiac events.