Assessment of Autonomic Functions in Obese Adults

Abstract

Background: Association between obesity and dysregulation of autonomic functions has long been established and is believed to be the cause of increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Furthermore, early detection of impaired autonomic functions and hence timely intervention can prevent many of the obesity related cardiovascular complications.
Purpose: The present study was carried out with the aim of assessing the relationship between autonomic dysfunction and obesity in adults using autonomic function tests as diagnostic tools.
Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 200 subjects, divided into two groups (n=100 each) on the basis of Body Mass Index (BMI) into control (non-obese) and study (obese) groups. The autonomic functions were assessed by six autonomic function tests: Orthostatic Tolerance Test, Cold Pressor Test, Handgrip Test, Standing to Lying Down Ratio (S/L Ratio), Heart rate response to postural change (30:15 ratio) and Heart rate response to Valsalva manoeuvre.
Results: There was statistically significant decrease in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic activity in the obese adults.
Conclusion: The present study suggests that there is impaired functioning of autonomic nervous system in otherwise healthy obese adults.