Cureus, 2022 · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30259 · Published: October 13, 2022
Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a condition that affects individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) at or above the T6 level. It involves a sudden rise in blood pressure due to a noxious stimulus below the injury level. Common triggers include urinary tract infections and bladder or bowel distension. Symptoms can include severe headache, bradycardia, and flushing, and the condition can be life-threatening if not promptly managed. Many emergency room staff are unfamiliar with AD, leading to delayed recognition and management. Education for both patients and healthcare providers is crucial for prompt detection and intervention.
Medical training should emphasize the recognition and management of autonomic dysreflexia to ensure prompt and effective intervention.
Patients with spinal cord injuries should receive comprehensive education about AD, its triggers, symptoms, and self-management techniques.
Close monitoring of bladder health and appropriate management strategies, such as intermittent catheterization, are crucial for preventing bladder distension and subsequent AD episodes.