Stress-induced cardiovascular responses to cold pressortest in healthy young subjects

Hypertension is one of the leading diseases of the cardiovascular system. It is manifested by changes in arterial stiffness. Cardiovascular reactivity, especially blood pressure (BP), changes during the cold pressor test (CPT) depending on various factors. Undoubtedly, stress is one of the most important factors. The aim of this study is to investigate the various effects of CPT on cardiovascular responses in healthy young subjects. A total of 56 healthy individuals aged between 21 and 26 years were investigated. The cardiovascular responses (BP, heart rate and aortic pulse wave velocity) to CPT were recorded by using the applanation tonometry. The Medical Outcomes Study Sleep Scale and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were used. 32.14% (n = 18) of the individuals who showed differences in systolic BP more than 22 mm Hg and differences in diastolic BP more than 18 mm Hg after the CPT were defined as hyperreactors. Hyperreactors showed a significantly higher increase in sleep disturbances (p > 0.01) and anxiety when compared to normoreactors. The CPT used to diagnose cardiovascular reactivity in young individuals and the assessment of perceived stress can help identify candidates who are at risk of hypertonic disease in the future.   Keywords: Cold pressor test, cardiovascular reactivity, applanation tonometry, blood pressure, stress.