Final answer:
Autonomic dysreflexia is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention, true to the statement in question A) True. It is associated with an excessive response of the sympathetic nervous system in individuals with certain spinal cord injuries.
Step-by-step explanation:
Autonomic dysreflexia is indeed an extreme emergency that requires immediate intervention, so the correct answer is A) True. It is a condition that can occur in individuals with a spinal cord injury at or above the T6 level. Autonomic dysreflexia is characterized by a sudden and exaggerated autonomic response to stimuli. This condition can lead to a dangerous spike in blood pressure, potential seizures, stroke, or even death if not promptly and correctly treated.
In the context of the autonomic nervous system, this dysreflexia showcases the importance of balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic pathways. The sympathetic pathway prepares the body for emergency action—often termed the "fight-or-flight" response—whereas the parasympathetic pathway is responsible for resting functions or the "rest-and-digest" response. In the case of autonomic dysreflexia, an overreaction of the sympathetic division can lead to life-threatening consequences.