Mental, Autonomic, and Neurophysiological Impairments in Patients with Obesity and Their Correction Using Transcranial Electrical Stimulation

Abstract

A total of 85 patients aged 45–68 years with grade I and II obesity for more than five years with concomitant arterial hypertension and atherosclerosis were observed. Patients were divided into two randomized groups. The study group underwent transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) on the background of standard treatment with antiaggregant vascular agents and low-calorie diet. The control group underwent a placebo TES procedure (with the electrodes disconnected). TES therapy was performed using the fronto-mastoid method with sequential stimulation of the right and left hemispheres at a frequency of 10 Hz; patients received a total of 10–12 daily procedures. Patients’ status was evaluated using a series of psychometric scales; autonomic nervous system status was determined by rhythmocardiography; brain bioelectrical activity (EEG) was also studied; the activity of the lipid peroxidation system was assessed. TES produced improvements in most indicators which were significantly greater than average improvements in the control group. Changes in clinical and laboratory parameters were accompanied by a mean 9.8 % decrease in body mass index.