What can trigger autonomic dysreflexia?
Author: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewer: Andrei Krassioukov and Janice Eng | Published: 12 October 2017 | Updated: ~
Autonomic dysreflexia can be triggered by any strong stimulation below the SCI, including anything that could be considered uncomfortable, irritating, or painful if it could be felt. For example, a wound can trigger autonomic dysreflexia even if it the person does not feel it. Autonomic dysreflexia can also be caused by normal body processes that are strongly stimulating, such as a full bladder or sexual stimulation. The most common triggers are related to the bladder or bowel.
Common causes of autonomic dysreflexia
- A bladder that is full – this may be caused by a blocked or kinked catheter, an overfilled collection bag, or incomplete emptying of urine
- Other bladder causes such as urinary tract infections or bladder procedures (like when putting in a catheter)
- A bowel that is full or impacted (contains a hard mass of stool that is stuck)
- Other bowel causes such as constipation, infections, haemorrhoids, or bowel procedures (such as during digital rectal stimulation)
- Pressure ulcers, wounds, or burns
- Skin irritation from pressure, pinching, ingrown toenails, or tight clothing
- Hot or cold temperatures
- Strong sexual stimulation
- Menstrual cramping
- Labour and delivery
- Broken bones and heterotopic ossification
- Surgery and other medical procedures (including functional electrical stimulation)
- Ulcers and other abdominal conditions
