Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

Employing the Forced Oscillation Technique for the Assessment of Respiratory Mechanics in Adults
Published on: February 9, 2022
[Cardiac rhythm variability in chronic bronchial asthma]
Abstract:
The study of cardiac rhythm variability (CRV) in bronchial asthma (BA) and its diagnostic significance included 265 patients aged 41.9 +/- 1.36 yr. They were examined using the rhythmocardiographic technique based on the high-resolution diagnostic system KAP-RK-01 "Mikor" (Chelyabinsk) allowing for the evaluation of sinus rhythm wave structure under conditions of targeted stimulation. Statistical and spectral analysis of CRV showed that BA is associated with autonomous dysregulation of pacemaker activity of the sinoatrial node (SAN) in the form of suppressed peripheral vegetative influence on chronotropic function and functional incompetence of SAN pacemaker cells. Non-specific CRV peculiarities of SAN dysregulation inherent in BA were demonstrated, such as decreased general variability due to reduction of the fast sympato-parasympathetic influence and enhancement of humoral and metabolic effects, impaired response to oppositely directed stimuli in the tests with lengthening the time of achievement of maximum reaction and recovery. BA patients showed very low-frequency CRV waves with a period of 35.332 +/- 8,773 s and a spectral power "peak" at 0.021 +/- 0.005 Hz. Their association with bronchial obstruction was confirmed by comparative analysis of CRV before and after intake of a bronchodilator and by correlation of CRV with the results of spirometry and peak flowmetry. The study suggests the possibility to use high-resolution rhythmocardiography in practical work of pulmonologists.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Classification of Asthma
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I

