[Autonomic dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (respiratory and cardiac disturbances) (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Autonomic Nervous System Research
• Cardio-Respiratory Physiology

Context:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is known to cause various neurological deficits.
• Autonomic dysfunction in MS is primarily documented for rectal, vesical, and sexual disorders.
• The impact of MS plaques on central autonomic control centers and spinal tracts suggests broader autonomic involvement.

Purpose:

• To investigate autonomic cardio-respiratory regulation in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
• To assess heart rate variability and cardio-respiratory interactions in MS.
• To compare cardio-respiratory parameters between MS patients and healthy controls.

Summary:

• This study investigated cardio-respiratory regulation in 40 MS patients and 40 healthy controls.
• Findings indicated frequent cardio-respiratory hyposynergia in MS patients, characterized by rigid, paradoxical, and atactic respiratory-induced pulse rate alterations.
• MS patients exhibited a significantly higher respiratory rate, primarily due to shortened inspiration, unlike healthy individuals.

Impact:

• Cardio-respiratory disorders are a frequent, yet under-recognized, complication of multiple sclerosis.
• These findings highlight the need for further research into autonomic dysfunction beyond the commonly known urogenital and sexual symptoms in MS.
• Understanding these autonomic disturbances can lead to improved patient management and quality of life for individuals with MS.