Bilateral electrodermal activity and asymmetric responses in normal healthy individuals

Abstract

Background: Electrodermal activity (EDA) or galvanic skin response (GSR) is the change in the electrical properties of the skin which is used to measure the sympathetic activity and response. When a painful stimulus is applied, it elicits a sympathetic response by increasing sweat gland activity that, in turn, increases the skin conductance. Central nervous system plays important role in regulating sympathetic activity. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) To evaluate the electrodermal responses (EDR) in dominant and non-dominant hand; (2) to compare the EDRs in dominant and non-dominant hand. Materials and Methods: The study was done among MBBS students of age 18–23 years in physiology research laboratory and EDA values were analyzed using BIOCHART software (version1.0) through physiography. EDA was recorded using skin surface electrodes. Pulse and blood pressure were monitored before and after immersion in cold water. Baseline recording, recording after immersion of hand in cold water, and recovery recording of GSR were noted in dominant and non-dominant hands. Results: The mean GSR, baseline value, and the GSR after cold stimulation were significantly more in non-dominant hand compared to dominant hand. Conclusion: Our findings show an increased sympathetic activity in non-dominant hand in response to cold stimulation compared to dominant hand.