Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) is a medical emergency that can develop suddenly which, if not treated, can lead to seizures, stroke, and even death.
Symptoms
- Pounding headache
- Flushing of skin and sweating above the level of injury
- Increased blood pressure (as high as 250/150) with bradycardia
- Apprehension, anxiety
- Nasal congestion, vision changes, and nausea
- Blotching of the skin; “goose bumps”
- Tightness in the chest, flutters in the heart, trouble breathing
First Aid
- Place the patient in a sitting position. Keep the head elevated to reduce pressure.
- Drain the bladder; if catheterized, check for kinks. A distended bladder is one of the causes of AD.
- Loosen or take anything tight off, such as restrictive garments, belts, etc. as pressure on parts of the body is also a cause of AD.
- Empty the bowel or stop digital stimulation until symptoms subside. The same as a distended bladder, this may cause AD.
- Monitor blood pressure every five minutes.
- Check the skin for sores, toenail problems, and the soles of the feet. Pressure points are a cause of AD.
- Seek professional help even if symptoms subside. If symptoms remain or return, head to the emergency room. Inform the staff of the presence of autonomic dysreflexia.
- Maintain the upright position, blood pressure monitoring, and identify the causes of AD.