Frequency Domain Parameters of Heart Rate Variability in Patients with Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease

Abstract

Background: Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been associated with autonomicnervous dysfunction along with reduced Heart Rate Variability.Objective: To observe cardiac autonomic nerve function status by heart rate variability analysis inpatients with Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD).Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Physiology, SirSalimullah Medical College (SSMC), Dhaka from 1st January, 2017 to 31st December, 2017.Forthis, total 30 male and female diagnosed GERD patients from the Out Patient Department(OPD) of Gastroenterology, BSMMU aged 20-35 years were included in the study group. LowFrequency norm (LF norm),High Frequency norm (HF norm) and LF/HF ratio of HRV parameterswere recorded. Thirty age and BMI matched healthy subject also included as control. For statisticalanalysis, unpaired t-test was done as applicable.Results: The mean LF norm was 72.10±13.97 n.u. and the mean LF/HF was 3.34±1.14. Whichwere significantly (p<0.001) higher in GERD patients in comparison to that of healthy subjects.Which indicate sympathetic overactivity in GERD patients. However, the mean HF norm was24.54±10.56 n.u. Which was significantly (p<0.001) lower in GERD patients as compared to that of apparently healthy subjects. Which indicate decreased parasympathetic activity in GERDpatients.Conclusion: Parasympathetic hypofunction and sympathetic over activity were found in GERDpatients.