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Differences in autonomic responses between subjects with and without nausea while watching an irregularly oscillating
Naoyuki Himi1, Tomoshige Koga, Emi Nakamura
1Department of Physiology, Kawasaki Medical School, Kurashiki, 701-0192, Japan. himi@med.kawasaki-m.ac.jp
Autonomic Neuroscience : Basic & Clinical
|November 24, 2004
Summary
Nausea triggers autonomic responses like increased heart rate and gastric electrical activity (EGG). These physiological changes may serve as protective reactions to the sensation of nausea.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Autonomic Nervous System Research
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Nausea is often preceded by autonomic disturbances, including altered heart rhythm and gastric motility.
- Understanding these prodromal signs is crucial for diagnosing and managing nausea.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare autonomic reactions in individuals experiencing nausea versus those who do not.
- To investigate the physiological underpinnings of nausea using objective measurements.
Main Methods:
- Healthy volunteers watched a visually oscillating movie to induce nausea.
- Simultaneous measurements included electrogastrogram (EGG), electrocardiogram (ECG), perspiration, blood flow, and respiration.
- Autonomic responses were analyzed in subjects who reported nausea compared to those who did not.
Main Results:
- Subjects experiencing nausea showed significant increases in EGG power, heart rate, and metopic perspiration.
- Respiratory rate also increased during and after movie exposure in the nausea group.
- No significant autonomic changes were observed in subjects who did not develop nausea.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights the role of the autonomic nervous system in the nausea response.
- Increased sympathetic nervous system activity during nausea may represent a defensive mechanism.