Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) increases the blood pressure in the body that can lead to strokes or a heart attack. It is common among people with a spinal cord injury of the sixth thoracic vertebra and higher. Despite its frequency, there is little known or understood about the condition – even in the medical field.
Therefore, our members are encouraged to carry our AD information card with them at all times. It can offer caregivers, doctors, emergency response or strangers offering assistance valuable information on how to assist the individual. It acts as a check list of sorts.
The card can be downloaded here.
What does AD look like?
When experiencing AD, the individual might complain about a headache or nausea, be flushed or red faced, have red blotches on their skin, be sweating above the level of injury, and have cold or clammy skin with goose bumps.
What causes AD?
There is a wide range of things that can cause AD. Spasms or intercourse could trigger an AD episode. It could also be hidden causes such as gallstones or kidney stones. It is important to consult a doctor who is well versed in the condition. There are several more obvious causes for which a caregiver can check such as the following:
- An overfull bladder or rectum.
- Pressure sores, haemorrhoids, ingrown toenails, injury, burn wounds, a sprain or fracture below the level of injury.
- Suctioning of the upper airways.
How do I respond to AD?
When someone experiences AD, the following steps are recommended:
- Sit the patient up to help lower the blood pressure.
- Loosen all tight clothing.
- Check for all the things that trigger AD.
- Call a doctor with AD knowledge.
For more information on AD and the causes of the condition, click here.
Brilliant AD card. THANKYOU so much.