Orthostatic hypotension and paroxysmal hypertension in humans with high spinal cord injury

Abstract

The spinal cord is essential for normal autonomic nervous system regulation of the cardiovascular system as the preganglionic neurons controlling the heart and blood vessels originate in the thoracolumbar spinal segments. The site and extent of a spinal cord injury determine the degree of autonomic involvement in cardiovascular dysfunction after the injury. After complete cervical cord lesions the entire sympathetic outflow is separated from cerebral control; this may cause orthostatic hypotension. Commonly after traumatic injuries to the spinal cord, one or more segments are totally destroyed. However, the distal portion of the spinal cord often retains function and activation of spinal cord reflexes working independently of the brain can result in paroxysmal hypertension. This chapter will focus on orthostatic hypotension and paroxysmal hypertension in cord-injured people with lesions affecting the cervical and upper thoracic spinal cord. Conditions promoting these abnormalities in blood pressure will be elaborated. Possible mechanisms for the hypo- and hypertension will be discussed, as will strategies for managing these problems.