Autonomic Dysreflexia KIT

It is a good idea to make an "autonomic dysreflexia kit" and keep with you at all times. The kit should include:

  • Blood pressure kit

    • make sure you or someone who can help you in an emergency knows how to use it.

  • Catheter & Supplies

    • if you use intermittent catheterization, or use an external catheter or padding, pack a straight catheter

    • if you use an indwelling catheter, pack an extra catheter, insertion supplies, an irrigation syringe & sterile water or saline solution

  • Any prescription medicines you take for autonomic dysreflexia

    • make sure to keep supplies fresh & up to date

  • Anesthetic or lubricant jelly to coat the catheter before you insert it

  • A copy of a dysreflexia guide such as "Autonomic Dysreflexia - What You Should Know"  by the Consortium for Spinal Cord Medicine

 

Autonomic dysreflexia can be life-threatening. It requires quick and correct action. Unfortunately, many healthcare providers are not familiar with this condition. That is why is very important for you, and those close to, to learn about it. You may have to guide your own treatment by ensuring that healthcare professionals, whether in an ambulance or a hospital, are thinking about autonomic dysreflexia when they are treating you.

 

 

NOTE: Information contained on this web site is presented for the purpose of educating people about spinal cord injuries and paralysis. Information contained on this web site should not be construed nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment and should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider. Should you have any health care related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified health care provider promptly. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet or fitness program. You should never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this web site.

 

 

Source: Consortium for Spinal Cord Medicine