Which of the following is a common symptom of autonomic dysreflexia?

In the context of autonomic dysreflexia, nasal congestion can indeed be a common symptom. This condition typically occurs in individuals with spinal cord injuries, particularly those with injuries above the T6 level. It results from an overreaction of the autonomic nervous system to stimuli, often leading to a range of symptoms due to vasodilation and the body’s attempts to regulate blood pressure.

During episodes of autonomic dysreflexia, the body's sympathetic nervous system becomes excessively activated, which can lead to unpredictable physiological responses, including nasal congestion. This response can be attributed to various factors, such as increased blood flow to the nasal mucosa, leading to swelling and congestion.

Other symptoms commonly associated with autonomic dysreflexia include elevated blood pressure, severe headaches, sweating, flushing above the injury level, and changes in heart rate. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial, as autonomic dysreflexia can be potentially life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

In this case, while lightheadedness, weakness in limbs, and rapid heart rate may occur in different clinical contexts, they are not classic symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia, making nasal congestion a more relevant and common finding in this specific condition.