Autonomic Dysreflexia: A medical emergency that can occur in people with spinal cord injuries.

What is Autonomic Dysreflexia?

Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a medical condition that affects people with spinal cord injuries above the T6 level. It is a sudden, uncontrolled overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which can cause a rapid increase in blood pressure.

what are the symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia ?

·  Severe headache

·  Facial flushing

·  Sweating above the level of the injury

·  Goosebumps above the level of the injury

·  Nausea or vomiting

·  Runny nose

·  Dilated pupils

·  Slow heart rate

. Feeling of tightness in the chest

who can suffer from Autonomic Dysreflexia?

People with spinal cord injuries above the T6 level are at risk of developing autonomic dysreflexia. This is because the spinal cord injury interrupts the normal communication between the brain and the body, which can lead to an overactive sympathetic nervous system

What are the types of Autonomic Dysreflexia?

There are two main types of autonomic dysreflexia:

• Classic: This is the most common type and is characterized by the symptoms listed above.
• Silent: This type does not involve the typical symptoms of facial flushing, sweating, or goosebumps.

Which diagnostic tests are available for Autonomic Dysreflexia?

There is no specific diagnostic test for autonomic dysreflexia. However, a doctor can diagnose the condition based on the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

What is the treatment of Autonomic Dysreflexia?

The goal of treatment is to lower the blood pressure and prevent complications. Treatment may include:

• Sitting the person up to help lower blood pressure
• Checking for and removing any irritants, such as a full bladder or bowel, that may be triggering the condition
• Administering medication to lower blood pressure
• Monitoring the person’s blood pressure and heart rate

Which diet I should take, if any ?

There is no specific diet for autonomic dysreflexia. However, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and avoid foods that are known to trigger headaches or other symptoms.

Which speciality of the doctor will treat Autonomic Dysreflexia?

A neurologist or a urologist is typically the specialist who treats autonomic dysreflexia.

Is Autonomic Dysreflexia completely curable ?

Autonomic dysreflexia is not a curable condition. However, with proper management, it can be controlled and the risk of complications can be reduced.