What is it? A rapid spike in blood pressure caused by a pain signal below the injury (usually T6 or higher). The body panics but the brain can't regulate it.
If ignored, it can cause stroke or seizure.
Symptoms to Spot
- Pounding, splitting headache
- Profuse sweating (forehead/neck)
- Goosebumps / Flushed skin
- Stuffy nose or anxiety
Immediate Actions
- SIT THEM UP. Keep head elevated to lower BP.
- Loosen Clothes. Belt, shoes, binder, bra.
- Check Bladder. Is catheter kinked? Bag full?
- Check Bowel. Is there impaction?
- Call 911 if BP stays high.
Hospital Prevention
These four tasks prevent 90% of hospital readmissions.
1. Skin Checks
Every morning and night. Look for red spots on the tailbone, heels, and hips.
Rule: If a red spot doesn't fade in 15 mins, stay off it.
2. The Quad Cough
Quads have weak stomach muscles. If they have a cold, place your hands below their ribs (on the diaphragm) and push In & Up when they cough to help expel mucus.
3. Range of Motion (ROM)
Move legs, ankles, and shoulders through their full motion once a day. This prevents "contractures" (muscles freezing in place).
4. Pressure Relief
Weight shifts must happen every 30 minutes in the chair. Lean them forward or tilt the power chair back to let blood flow return to the buttock.
Safe Lifting (Protecting Your Back)
You cannot help them if you injure your own back. Follow these mechanics for manual transfers.
The Pivot Transfer
- Get Close: Your knees should block their knees (the "knee block") to prevent them from sliding forward.
- Use Leverage, Not Strength: Rock them three times. "1, 2, 3... Lift." Use the momentum of the rock.
- Keep Your Back Straight: Bend at your hips and knees, never curve your spine.
- Head Direction: Their head goes the opposite way of their hips. (Head goes Left -> Hips go Right).
Pro Tip: If the transfer feels "heavy," stop. You are fighting physics. Reset their feet and try again.
Caregiver Burnout is Real
You are not a robot. Caregiver fatigue leads to resentment and mistakes.
- Schedule "Off" Time: Even if it's 2 hours a week. Ask a friend to sit with them while you leave the house.
- Join a Group: You need to vent to people who understand. Facebook groups like "Wives of SCI" or "Caregivers of Spinal Cord Injury" are vital.
- Accept Help: When people say "Let me know if I can help," give them a specific task. "Yes, can you mow the lawn on Tuesday?"