The association between heart rate variability and biatrial phasic function in arterial hypertension

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Physiology
• Hypertension Research

Background:

• Hypertension is a major cardiovascular risk factor.
• Atrial function and heart rate variability (HRV) are crucial for cardiovascular health.
• The relationship between atrial mechanics and autonomic function in untreated hypertension requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate left atrial (LA) and right atrial (RA) phasic function and mechanics in untreated hypertensive patients.
• To assess heart rate variability (HRV) in this population.
• To explore the relationship between atrial function and HRV.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 73 untreated hypertensive patients and 51 controls.
• 24-hour Holter monitoring for HRV assessment.
• Comprehensive 2D and 3D echocardiography for LA and RA function evaluation.

Main Results:

• Hypertensive patients showed reduced LA and RA reservoir and conduit function.
• Increased LA and RA booster function was observed in hypertensive patients.
• All HRV parameters were significantly reduced in hypertensive subjects.
• Cardiac sympathovagal balance parameters correlated with atrial function and volume indices.

Conclusions:

• Untreated hypertension significantly impairs LA and RA phasic function and mechanics.
• Hypertensive patients exhibit deteriorated HRV.
• Biatrial function and mechanics are closely correlated with cardiac autonomic nervous system activity.