Autonomic Dysreflexia treatment card

A new edition of the wallet sized AD Medical Emergency card for people with spinal cord injury has been developed to alert health care professionals to the principles of management of AD.

It contains some new information relevant to adolescents and an addition to the treatment guideline.

 

Autonomic Dysreflexia is a medical emergency

Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) can occur in SCI at or above T6. It arises due to the loss of control mechanisms for blood pressure and heart function. It causes the blood pressure to rise to dangerous levels.

The symptoms of AD can include

• a  pounding headache
• blurred vision and spots before the eyes
• flushing of the skin
• sweating
• goosebumps
• anxiety
• nasal stuffiness

Since not all physicians are familiar with autonomic dysreflexia (hyperreflexia) and its treatment, you should carry a card with you that describes the condition and the treatment required.

To obtain the card contact the Manager, State Spinal Cord Injury Service, on 02 8644 2198 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .