Abstract

Deep breathing assesses autonomic function; however, many researchers/clinicians do not account for hyperventilation, brain blood flow or blood pressure. Men and women (with/without oral contraceptives) participated. women participated during low and high hormone phases of the menstrual cycle. Blood pressure, end-tidal carbon dioxide, middle cerebral artery velocity and cerebrovascular resistance were assessed. Deep breathing decreased end-tidal carbon dioxide and middle cerebral artery velocity while increasing cerebrovascular resistance in all participants; blood pressure decreased in men. There were no influences of menstrual cycle or oral contraceptives. Men have different autonomic responses to deep breathing compared to women.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call