Autonomic dysreflexia (AD) is a dangerous, potentially life-threatening medical emergency when the autonomic nervous system over-responds to a negative stimulus, requiring immediate management. Most instances of AD occur 2-3 months after injury, once the spinal and neurogenic shock subside. AD occurs in 48%-70% of people with an SCI at T6 or above. If you have a spinal cord injury, especially at or above the T6 level, your body might overreact to something uncomfortable or irritating below the injury—like a full bladder, pebble in your shoe, or even a wrinkle in your clothes. This is called a trigger.