Abstract

Introduction: The autonomic nervous system is key to balance a human activity within
aphysiological condition. But exaggerated sympathetic response increases metabolic
function.Daily stress also plays an important role in activating sympathetic activity, but
chronic stressdysfunctions sympathetic activity and has diverse pathophysiological
consequences.
Aim:Thisresearch was planned to see the impact of stressors on sympathetic activity
inIndian youngadults.
Methods and Methodology: This cross-sectional study was done in the Department
ofPhysiology, of TMMC and RC,Moradabad for a period of six months(July –
December2017) after the clearance from ethical & college research committee, Healthy
young adults(N = 140) aged 18–25 years were enrolled for this study after receiving
written consent. Eighty-six male subjects were in Group -1 having normal BMI (18.5-
24.9kg/m2) and fifty- fourmales were enrolled in Group-2 having BMI (>25kg/m2).
Their BMI was calculated bythequetelet index(kg/m2). after taking individuals height in
meters and weight in kilogram.Basal systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood
pressure were measured by aneroidsphygmomanometer and heart rate were calculated
from lead II of ECG. These parameterswere again observed after inducing stress by
Cold pressure test (CPT), bicycle ergometer, andVideo Game (VG).
Results: There was no significant difference obtained in cardiovascular activity (Heart
rate,Systolic & Diastolic blood pressure) at the baseline position (>0.05) but just after
inducingstress (CPT, ergometer, VG) the sympathetic activity was more noticed in
Group-2 withhighly significant difference(<0.01) Most significant difference was found
after the physicalstressor (ergometer) in heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure
(<0.001). After theCPT significant difference was found in heart rate, systolic blood
pressure (<0.05) diastolicblood pressure (<0.001). Post mental stress (VG) there was
significant difference in heart rateand systolic blood pressure (<0.05) and diastolic
blood pressure (<0.001).
Conclusion: The sympathetic activity was maximum in Group-2 individuals with
highlysignificant difference (<0.01), so they are more prone to hypertension.As a result,
Group 2 isadvised to take precautionary measures by following healthy lifestyle