How can I prevent it?
Who can be affected by AD?
- AD can occur in patients with spinal cord injury at or above the sixth thoracic vertebra (T6).
- It is more likely to occur in patients with complete injuries, but incomplete injured patients can also be at risk.
- The condition is triggered by a painful stimulus below the level of the injury, which causes severe, sudden hypertension (raised blood pressure)
- If left untreated it can be harmful
- For most people, AD can be easily treated as well as prevented. The key is knowing your baseline blood pressure, triggers and symptoms.
Helping to prevent AD
There are some simple things you can do:
- Prevent catheter blockages and stones by drinking 2-3 Litres of fluid a day
- Regular bladder emptying
- Adhere to the bowel management regimen to prevent constipation and complications
- Regular pressure relief in bed or chair to prevent any skin damage
- Use sunscreen when out in direct sunlight
- Be alert and aware of hot and cold temperatures in environment and devices
e.g. hot water bottles, laptop transformers, ice pack - Be careful of limbs when transferring
Preventing AD from happening again
Along with education, prevention remains the long term goal in managing this condition, as most causes can be avoided.
- For individuals who are unable to verbalise any symptoms they are experiencing, family and carers should be aware of the possibility that any subtle changes in their condition could indicate an episode of AD.
- A medic-alert bracelet should be considered and/or an autonomic dysreflexia at risk card carried.
NOTE: You may wish to carry/take information on AD to show healthcare professionals looking after you, particularly if they are unfamiliar with AD or you are admitted to an area other than a spinal unit.
