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Pulmonary responses during cold induced acute pain
O P Tandon1, A Himani, S Singh
1Department of Physiology, University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi.
Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Cold pain triggers significant changes in lung function, including increased respiratory rate and vital capacity. These pulmonary alterations indicate a sympathetic nervous system response to acute pain stimuli.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Pain Research
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Autonomic responses to cold-induced acute pain are well-documented, affecting cardiovascular, skin conductance, and pupil size.
- However, limited research exists on the impact of acute pain on pulmonary function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and report preliminary data on changes in pulmonary function during cold-induced acute pain.
- To explore the relationship between respiratory parameters and pain perception.
Main Methods:
- Acute pain was induced in 30 healthy males (30-50 years) by immersing their hand in cold water.
- Respiratory parameters (RR, TV, IRV, ERV, VC, FVC, FEV1%, peak flow, V75,50,25) were measured.
- Cardiovascular (HR, BP), pain (threshold, tolerance, sensitivity), and skin temperature were also recorded.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in respiratory rate (RR), inspiratory capacity (IC), expiratory capacity (EC), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1% were observed during cold pain.
- Positive correlations were found between heart rate and respiratory rate, and between respiratory parameters and pain metrics.
- These findings suggest sympathetic nervous system dominance during acute pain exposure.
Conclusions:
- Pulmonary function alterations are a component of the multidimensional autonomic response to cold-induced acute pain.
- The study highlights the link between pain perception and respiratory system modulation.