Sport-related concussion induces transient cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction
John L Dobson1, Mary Beth Yarbrough2, Jose Perez2
1School of Health and Kinesiology, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia; jdobson@georgiasouthern.edu.
Summary
Concussions disrupt autonomic cardiovascular control, evidenced by altered heart rate and blood pressure responses in athletes. These changes, measured by autonomic reflex tests, normalize within 24 hours but indicate initial dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Neurology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Concussions are increasingly recognized for their potential to disrupt autonomic nervous system function.
- Autonomic cardiovascular control plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological stability.
- Understanding the immediate impact of concussion on cardiovascular regulation is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of concussion on autonomic cardiovascular control.
- To evaluate the utility of autonomic reflex tests in assessing concussion-related dysfunction.
- To compare cardiovascular responses between concussed athletes and a control group.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-three recreational athletes (12 concussed, 11 control) underwent autonomic reflex testing (forced breathing, standing, Valsalva maneuver).
- Cardiovascular parameters including heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured using finger photoplethysmography.
- Tests were administered at four time points: within 48 hours post-injury, 24 hours later, 1 week, and 2 weeks after injury.
Main Results:
- Concussed athletes exhibited significantly higher resting SBP and HR, and exaggerated SBP responses to standing within 48 hours of injury.
- A delayed normalization of SBP after the Valsalva maneuver was observed in the concussed group initially.
- Significant interactions indicated a relative decline in HR responses to forced breathing in concussed individuals over time.
Conclusions:
- Concussion acutely disrupts autonomic cardiovascular control mechanisms.
- Autonomic reflex tests are practical and effective tools for evaluating concussion-induced autonomic dysfunction.
- While some cardiovascular alterations normalize quickly, further investigation into persistent effects is warranted.
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