What are common triggers of autonomic dysreflexia?

• A. Regular physical activity
• B. Adequate hydration
• C. Bladder distension
• D. Ambient temperature

Answer: (C)

Autonomic dysreflexia occurs when a stimulus below the level of a high spinal cord injury triggers an exaggerated autonomic response, leading to a dangerous rise in blood pressure. The most common trigger is bladder distension. When the bladder is full or retention occurs, signals below the injury can't be properly modulated, causing widespread vasoconstriction and a sharp BP increase. This is why addressing the bladder first—check the catheter, drain urine, or catheterize if needed—is the critical initial step.

Context helps: other possible triggers include bowel distension or impaction, urinary tract infection, skin irritation or pressure sores, and tight clothing or other irritants below the injury level. Regular physical activity and adequate hydration are generally beneficial for overall health and can reduce risk, and ambient temperature can sometimes worsen symptoms but is not the typical primary trigger.