Autonomic Dysreflexia
Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) also called autonomic hyperreflexia is a medical emergency. It is an abnormal response in the nervous system that may be caused by SCI. AD causes blood pressure to rise and can lead to complications such as a stroke, seizures, permanent brain damage or even death. You are at risk of AD if your injury is at or above T6. You are at a moderate risk if your injury level is between T6-T10. AD is more common if you have a complete SCI.
AD is usually triggered by irritation to the body below the point of the SCI. It causes an abnormal response in the nervous system. This makes the blood vessels tighten. As a result, the blood pressure rises quickly.
Steps must be taken right away to find and relieve the irritation. This may require emergency treatment.
Understanding blood pressure
It is important to know your blood pressure. Your blood pressure may be lower after your SCI. An increase in 15 or 20 points from your new normal blood pressure may indicate AD.
Causes of autonomic dysreflexia
The most common causes are related to bladder or bowel concerns such as a:
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Full catheter bag
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Bladder of kidney stones
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Full bowel
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Hemorrhoids
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Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency!
Other causes may include:
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Infection in your body
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Ingrown toenail
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Sunburn
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Pregnancy
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Signs of autonomic dysreflexia may include:
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A sudden, pounding headache
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A fast, major increase in blood pressure
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Feeling anxious or jittery
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Goose bumps
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Heavy sweating
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Blurred vision or seeing spots
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Hot red skin above the level of your injury
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Pale skin below the level of your injury
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Stuffy nose and trouble with breathing
If you have any of these signs, you should:
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Raise the head of your bed or sit up straight. This helps lower your blood pressure.
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Check the tubing of your catheter. Straighten any kinks.
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Catherize yourself.
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Check your rectum for an impaction. Insert a lubricated gloved figure into the rectum, and remove any hard stool.
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Check your skin for any breakdown.
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Loosen any tight clothing.
If you do not feel better, remain sitting up and call 911 or go immediately to the nearest emergency room. Uncontrolled autonomic dysreflexia is a medical emergency.
Take the autonomic dysreflexia card (below) with you to the emergency room or any time you leave your home.
Cut out the cards below.
Carry one with you at all times and give one to your caregiver.
