Other Autonomic Dysfunctions

There are a variety of other autonomic dysfunctions that can occur after SCI. During the first weeks post-injury (period of neurogenic shock), alterations in autonomic function require close medical management and may be life-threatening (Guly et al. 2008; Krassioukov et al. 2007; Tuli et al. 2007). Low resting arterial blood pressure, severe bradycardia, and even asystole can be seen in individuals with cervical injuries (Biering-Sørensen et al. 2017). However, even those who are not in severe distress need to be carefully monitored for autonomic instability during the initial post-injury period and beyond. We have briefly summarized some of the most common general autonomic dysfunction issues post-SCI (for a more complete discussion of Bladder, Bowel and Sexual Health issues post-SCI, please refer to the specific chapters in the Evidence section of SCIRE).