What Are the Symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia?

Discussion Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) or hyperreflexia occurs in people with spinal cord injuries where the automatic signals and responses within the body problem do not occur normally. The University of Alabama’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation explains it this way: “AD occurs as a response to some type of irritation below the level of injury. The body tries to send signals to the brain to identify and respond to the irritant, but signals are blocked by the [spinal cord injury].” “Without communication between the brain and body, blood vessels begin to narrow and cause a rise in blood pressure. When sensors tell the brain that the blood pressure is getting too high, the brain then tries to lower the blood pressure….” Causes of AD are usually normal physiological states but in this setting of spinal cord injury are irritants. These include bladder problems such as spasms, or just an overfilled bladder. Bowel problems are similar with constipation being a common irritant. Skin problems including pressure sores, wounds, rashes or just general dermatitis. Other problems include temperature extremes, trauma, pressure on body parts, abdominal cramping, and for women genitourinary states such as menstrual cramping, pregnancy and labor. Treatment is to find the irritation and eliminate it. Hypertension may need to be treated with anti-hypertensive medication. AD can be a medical emergency. Learning Point Additional symptoms ...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news