Common causes of autonomic dysreflexia

The cause of autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is most commonly a bladder, bowel or skin issues but it can occur with any potentially irritating stimulus. The following can be examples of causes:

• Full bladder
• Urinary Tract Infection
• Renal stones
• Constipation and faecal impaction
• Rectal trauma or related injury such as haemorrhoids, fissures, prolapse
• Pressure injuries and skin damage including tight clothing
• Ingrown toenails
• Fractures
• Menstruation and pregnancy/labour

People with SCI should be educated to recognise AD early and to seek urgent medical treatment. Patients and carers can often suggest the cause. Wallet-sized AD management cards (seen below) are available, as local health services may not be experienced in its management. People with SCI should be educated to recognise AD early and to seek urgent medical treatment. Patients and carers can often suggest the cause. Wallet-sized AD management cards (seen below) are available, as local health services may not be experienced in its management.