Methods Of Treating And Preventing Autonomic Dysreflexia

Use The Bathroom Regularly

After a spinal injury, there will be many changes in how the body functions. This will include bowel and bladder functions. While an individual's bladder will still store urine from their kidneys, their brain may not be able to control their bladder because of the injury. This can make patients more susceptible to urinary tract infections.

Similarly, their stomach and intestines will work as same as always, but again they will have less control. For these reasons, it’s important to use the bathroom regularly. However, if an episode happens, despite this, individuals can still manage the situation by checking their catheter and removing any kinks present, emptying the collection bag, and irrigating it. If it does not drain, individuals should replace it immediately, and if an episode happens during a digital stimulation, patients should cease the stimulation until the symptoms subside. Conversely, if an episode occurs while doing a bowel program in bed, individuals should use commode bowel evacuation.

Get familiar with the next prevention tip now.