When you have a severe injury, there’s always the possibility of complications or deeper issues that stem from it. In some cases, your body can have a dangerous reaction to certain issues that can aggravate the impact of the injury. While spinal cord injuries, or SCIs, are severe enough on their own, they can also lead to a life-threatening condition if signs of an irritation are ignored.
Autonomic dysreflexia is a condition that exclusively affects patients who have sustained a spinal cord injury at a T6 level or above. When there’s a stimulation that causes irritation below the level of the injury, the body’s autonomic nervous system can have an overreaction. It can lead to a seizure, stroke or death if immediate care and treatment aren’t implemented.
In order to prevent this medical emergency, it’s important to know about the warning signs to be aware of. Read on to learn about the signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia to be on the lookout for in patients with an SCI. We’ll also discuss the causes and treatment options for patients with spinal cord injuries at Ability KC.
Signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia to be aware of
Autonomic dysreflexia’s mortality rate is 22%, though it’s more common in patients with complete SCIs as opposed to incomplete. By learning about the signs of the condition, you can be more alert if they start to occur so that you can take the proper steps to alleviate the complications.
The signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia are based on where the irritation occurs in relation to the level of injury.
Signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia if it was stimulated above the level of injury:
- Hypertension (sudden spike in blood pressure of 20 to 40 mmHg higher than usual)
- Slow or fast heart rate
- Red cheeks
- Stuffy nose
- Blurry vision
- Goosebumps
- Severe headache
Signs and symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia if it was stimulated below the level of injury:
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Pallor
- Chills without a fever
- Feeling sweaty or clammy
If the signs and symptoms are recognized early enough, proper treatment can reduce the risk of a fatality, stroke or seizure. Monitoring the symptoms is important; however, emergency services should be called if they persist.
Causes of autonomic dysreflexia
Now that we’ve talked about the signs and symptoms of this dangerous condition, let’s go over the possible causes that can result in them. While some are co-occurring medical conditions that stimulate the nervous system, while others are natural body functions.
There are many types of stimulation that can trigger autonomic dysreflexia, including:
- Overfull bladder, leading to distension
- Bladder stones
- Urinary tract infections
- Menstrual cramps
- Childbirth
- Hemorrhoids
- Bowel fissures
- Constipation
- Scrotal compression
- Sexual stimulation and activity
- Pressure ulcers
- Blisters or burns
- Tight clothing
Ability KC can help patients reduce the risk of developing autonomic dysreflexia
Patients with spinal cord injuries require medical rehabilitation to restore or improve their quality of life as much as possible. It involves addressing and treating physical and cognitive challenges that can be improved with the right technology and therapeutic approaches. In addition, medical rehabilitation can play a role in reducing the risk of autonomic dysreflexia.
Patient education is a pillar of all treatment plans for spinal cord injuries at Ability KC. Patients and their families can learn the ins and outs of the injuries, including potential complications, such as autonomic dysreflexia. Not only will we help you learn about the symptoms that you should be on alert for, but we’ll also discuss the measures that should be taken as you wait for assistance, such as checking for the source and monitoring blood pressure levels.
Treatment through rehabilitation can also help families take preventive measures against autonomic dysreflexia. This may include lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of developing conditions such as a UTI, distended bladder and constipation. Medical rehabilitation can also be a resource for addressing co-occurring issues, such as pressure ulcers and bladder stones.
Rehabilitation is essential for anyone who has sustained a spinal cord injury. At Ability KC, patients with spinal cord injuries can undergo a variety of therapy services to help improve their physical functions as well as their mental health. It can include treatment approaches including outpatient therapy, assistive technology, social work and psychology.
Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF) with a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.