Autonomic Dysreflexia

Question 1

Autonomic Dysreflexia is ? 1.

Answer 1

Autonomic dysreflexia (also known as autonomic hyper-reflexia) is a term used to describe abnormal stimulation of the autonomic nervous system in patients with chronic spinal cord impairment. Autonomic dysreflexia usually occurs in association with significant stimulation below the level of the cord injury.

Question 2

Autonomic Dysreflexia - 2.

S&S

Answer 2

• chronic spinal cord impairnment &
• hypertension
• Anxiety
• Headache
• Vasoconstriction - mottling below the injury
• vasodilation -flushing- above the injury
• Tachycardia

Question 3

Autonomic Dysreflexia - 3.

Tx

Answer 3

look for cause - bladder distension, trauma, constipation, acute injury
if BP is greater than 180mmhg:
-sit with legs dependant if possible
-Administer 0.4-0.8mg GTN SL every 3-5mins
(HR >40 -150