Methods Of Treating And Preventing Autonomic Dysreflexia

Autonomic dysreflexia, a syndrome that leads to a sudden onset of high blood pressure and can be accompanied by low heartbeats, is not uncommon. In fact, about fifty percent of individuals with a spinal cord injury get it. It is most common in individuals with spinal cord injuries, at, or above the thoracic (T6) nerves of the spine or above. If not properly managed, autonomic dysreflexia can lead to seizures, a stroke, or even death. When the skin or bladder is irritated, signals are sent to the spinal cord, which triggers a reflex action. This reflex tightens blood vessels below the injury, causing blood pressure to rise. Preventing and treating autonomic dysreflexia is extremely crucial. Learn the best strategies for this now.

Sit Up When Possible

Sitting up helps blood move to lower parts of the body and helps ease blood pressure. Individuals should stay in the correct posture, which means having their back straight and raising their head so they are looking straight forward. If individuals are in a position to lower their legs, they should do so. If they have to transfer to a bed or are in bed, individuals must keep their head and upper body elevated from the lower part of their body. Lying down can elevate their blood pressure even more. Therefore, when an episode comes on, individuals should sit up when possible and remain in this position until their blood pressure is back to normal.

Reveal more details on how to treat and prevent autonomic dysreflexia now.