Autonomic dysreflexia care at home
Trusted autonomic dysreflexia care from experienced Care Professionals, helping people living with a spinal cord injury to stay safe and healthy at home.
What is Autonomic Dysreflexia care?
Autonomic dysreflexia is a condition that can occur in people with a spinal cord injury, causing dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system. This happens due to triggers such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), distended bladder or a clogged catheter, and can cause a sudden, severe rise in blood pressure, increasing stroke risk by 300-400%. For this reason, it should be treated as a medical emergency, and having a professional carer present can help to recognise the signs early.
Autonomic dysreflexia can cause symptoms such as:
- A severe headache
- Excessive sweating
- A slower heart rate
- Skin flushing
- Goosebumps
- Cold skin
- Nausea/vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Feelings of anxiety
Why is Autonomic Dysreflexia care at home helpful for older adults?
Autonomic dysreflexia is thought to occur in around 37-78% of tetraplegics (people with loss of motor and/or sensory function in the upper and lower parts of their body), and 24-77% of paraplegics (people with loss of motor and/or sensory function in the lower part of their body), when damage has occurred above the T6 level.
Older adults with a risk of autonomic dysreflexia may no longer have the ability to recognise the signs of this condition as easily as they once did, or they may lack the ability to manage this quickly on their own. Having a fully-trained carer at home can put their mind at ease by helping to manage risk factors, identifying early signs, and alerting medical professionals who can help to stabilise their condition.
Do I need Autonomic Dysreflexia care?
Autonomic dysreflexia requires several interventions performed quickly to reduce blood pressure. These include:
- Sitting the person upright with legs dangling
- Removing restrictive clothing or jewellery
- Checking and draining the bladder/catheter
- Checking for fecal impaction and managing this if trained to do so
- Administering fast-acting medications to relieve blood pressure
If another trigger is present, do what you can to remove this, or if you cannot find the trigger, seek immediate medical attention.
Home care can help prevent autonomic dysreflexia by regularly emptying the bladder/catheter, managing pain, taking steps to avoid constipation, and helping prevent bedsores or skin infections.
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
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I am very happy with the support, care and kindness I receive from all the staff of Home Instead.
B.M, Client
Home Instead have been looking after my father for a few years now, without them we would not be able to manage having him living in his own home. They are always bright and cheerful and Dad enjoys seeing them.
Bridget, Client's Family
My mum receives excellent care from Home Instead. They are all very caring, friendly, organised and help my mum to feel happy, safe and well cared for in her own home. The carers are very good at communicating with the office and in turn the office are great at communicating any concerns to me as situations arise.
Jane, Client's Family
Knowing that mum has caring and genuine people to help take care of her gives me peace of mind and mum looks forward to seeing the Care Professionals. Thank you for making such a big difference to both of our lives.
Rebecca, Client's Family
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Get in touch How to get started arranging Autonomic Dysreflexia care
If you or a loved one has a spinal cord injury that heightens risk of autonomic dysreflexia, having a professional caregiver present can give you and your family peace of mind that, should this occur, fast action can be taken to lower blood pressure.
We work hard to pair every client with a Care Professional who matches their interests and personality, respects their preferences and routines, and understands the unique needs of someone with a spinal cord injury. From overnight care and respite care, to vital signs monitoring and companionship, we can provide a bespoke combination of care that works for you.
Whatever questions you would like answered about arranging autonomic dysreflexia care at home, we’re here to help.
Why Home Instead?
Our friendly, experienced and fully-trained Care Professionals offer support for those with a spinal cord injury who are at risk of autonomic dysreflexia. We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), so you can rest assured that in an emergency situation, you or your loved one can count on your caregiver to act quickly.
From providing overnight care or respite care so families can take a break, to additional care such as personal care or housekeeping, our Care Professionals can provide the care you need in the comfort of your own home.
FAQs
- What is autonomic dysreflexia and how can a home care service help manage it?
Autonomic dysreflexia is a serious condition that can occur in people with spinal cord injuries at or above the T6 level. It’s triggered by irritants or pain below the site of injury, causing dangerous increases in blood pressure. A home care service like ours can provide skilled Care Professionals carers who are trained to recognise and manage symptoms promptly, helping to prevent complications. Care Professionals can monitor triggers, ensure safety, and follow personalised care plans tailored to the individual’s needs.
- How do carers help reduce the risk of autonomic dysreflexia?
Care Professionals focus on prevention by identifying and avoiding triggers such as bladder issues, bowel obstructions, or skin irritations. They assist with catheter care, pressure relief, and ensuring clothing or equipment isn’t causing discomfort. A consistent care routine is established to minimise risks, giving both the individual and their family peace of mind.
- What should carers do during an episode of autonomic dysreflexia?
Care Professionals are trained to act swiftly during an episode. They will help the individual sit upright to lower blood pressure, identify and address the trigger, such as emptying the bladder or relieving skin pressure, and monitor symptoms. If the episode doesn’t resolve quickly or becomes severe, the Care Professional will call for medical assistance while providing support to keep the individual safe and comfortable.
- Can care be personalised for someone with autonomic dysreflexia?
Yes. A home care service like ours works with healthcare professionals, the individual, and their family to create a bespoke care plan. This plan addresses specific health risks, daily care needs, and triggers unique to the individual. Personalisation ensures that care is both effective and respectful of the person’s preferences and lifestyle.
- Why is home care a good option for individuals with autonomic dysreflexia?
Home care allows individuals to remain in familiar and comfortable surroundings while receiving expert, one-on-one support. This helps reduce environmental stressors that could exacerbate their condition. Families also benefit from professional assistance, ensuring their loved one’s safety and well-being are prioritised while maintaining independence.
Diane Williams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.