Assessment of Cardiovascular Autonomic Functions and Baroreceptor Reactivity in Women with Premenstrual Syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: The study was conducted to assess the autonomic status of women with mild PMS using short-term heart rate variability (HRV) analysis and conventional autonomic function tests (CAFT). METHODS: Sixty females in the age group 17-25 years with mild premenstrual syndrome were identified using a self-report questionnaire, the shortened premenstrual assessment form. HRV and CAFTs were recorded 1- 5 days prior and 8-10 days after menstruation. RESULTS: The subjects showed a significant increase in HR and SBP in luteal phase. In HRV, an increase in mean HR and LF-HF ratio were seen in the luteal phase whereas an increase in the NN50, RMSSD and pNN50, HF, HF(nu) and TP were seen in the follicular phase. In CAFT, no change in HRB, 30:15 and El I ratios but increase in ?DBP(ihg) in the luteal phase was seen. CONCLUSION: The increase in HR and SBP in the luteal phase could be because increased water and salt retention due to the ovarian steroids. A decrease in HRV, increase in ?DBPihg with no change in 30:15 ratio in the luteal phase could be attributed to delayed withdrawal of ovarian hormones in the luteal phase.

Effect of Modified Slow Breathing Exercise on Perceived Stress and Basal Cardiovascular Parameters.

CONTEXT: Different types of breathing exercises have varied effects on cardiovascular parameters and the stress levels in an individual. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a modified form of isolated alternate nostril, slow breathing exercise on perceived stress, and cardiovascular parameters in young, male volunteers. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: This was a randomized control study carried out at Advanced Centre for Yoga Therapy Education and Research, Department of Physiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry in 2014. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Hundred healthy male volunteers were randomized into control group, n = 50 and slow breathing group (study), n = 50. Slow breathing exercise training was given to study group for 30 min a day, 5 times/week for 12 weeks, under the supervision of certified yoga trainers. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) using Cohen's questionnaire, anthropometric parameters such as body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio (WHR), and cardiovascular parameters such as heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were recorded at baseline and after 12 weeks. The control group did not receive any intervention. Slow breathing exercise training was provided for the study group. During the study period, one volunteer opted out of the study group due to personal reasons. RESULTS: HR, SBP, DBP, and PSS decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in the study group following 12 weeks slow breathing exercise training, while no significant change (P > 0.05) was observed in BMI and WHR. There was no significant change in the control group. CONCLUSION: Twelve weeks of modified slow breathing exercise reduced perceived stress and improved the cardiovascular parameters. The above results indicate that our modified slow breathing exercise is effective in reducing stress and improving the cardiovascular parameters.