About this topic
Autonomic dysreflexia is also known as AD. Some people may also call it autonomic hyperreflexia. AD most often happens in people who have had a spinal cord injury. It is a condition where your nerves react too much to some kind of stimulation. AD is a serious problem where you may have a very fast heart beat or very high blood pressure, along with other signs. ‚
In most cases, your autonomic nervous system controls things you dont have to think about, like breathing, heartbeat, and blood pressure. Things like knowing you have a full bladder or need to have a bowel movement are also controlled by your autonomic nervous system. Your body works to stay in balance and keep these things working the right way. ‚
With AD, the signals from your nerves to your brain are interrupted. You may not feel the need to pass urine or have a bowel movement. You may have a urinary catheter in or your bowel routine has not been followed closely. Then, your body does not know what needs to be done to keep things in balance. AD is a serious condition and is a health emergency. ‚
What are the causes?
AD is triggered by something that would cause you pain or bother you if you could feel it. This may be something like your bladder or bowels being too full. Things like pressure sores, wounds, ingrown toenails, broken bones, or health problems may also cause AD. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Problems with your bladder or catheter
- Hard stools, hemorrhoids, or other bowel problems
- Skin problems like an ingrown toenail or pressure sores
- Tight clothing
You are more likely to have AD if you have a spinal cord injury that involves your thoracic nerves. It also may happen because of: ‚
- Brain injury
- Side effects of a drug
- Guillain-Barre Syndrome
- Taking street drugs like cocaine or methamphetamines
What are the main signs?
- High blood pressure
- Heart rate that is very fast or too slow
- Skin above the injury has red blotches and is sweating, while skin below injury is cold and clammy
- Reddened face
- Headache
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Stuffy nose
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Your doctor will do an exam and will check your nervous system with care. The doctor may order tests like:
- Lab tests
- CT or MRI scan
- Tilt table blood pressure testing
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will work to find the cause of your AD. The doctor may have you sit up and loosen any tight clothing. The doctor will check your blood pressure. The doctor will check your bladder to make sure it is not too full. The doctor may also check you for constipation, skin problems, or other things that may cause your nervous system to react too much. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
If your signs do not go away quickly, your doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Lower your blood pressure
- Control your heart rate
- Prevent hard stools
What problems could happen?
- Seizures
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Death
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
If you have a spinal cord injury, take extra care to: ‚
- Keep your bladder from getting too full.
- Keep good bowel habits.
- Keep your skin from getting pressure sores or ingrown nails.
- Wear loose clothing.
- Avoid sunburns.
- Avoid being too hot or too cold.
Where can I learn more?
Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation ‚
http://www.christopherreeve.org/site/c.mtKZKgMWKwG/b.4453413/k.5E2A/Autonomic_Dysreflexia.htm ‚
Last Reviewed Date
2015-09-22 ‚
List_set bdysylist
- Neuromuscular and Skeletal
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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