Vagal tone

Vagal Tone

VivoSense HR vs Vagal Tone

Vagal tone refers to the activity of the vagus nerve, a crucial component of the parasympathetic nervous system. It is an important physiological marker that reflects the body's ability to regulate the heart rate and maintain homeostasis.

Physiology

The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve and plays a significant role in controlling the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. Vagal tone is often measured by assessing the variability in heart rate, known as heart rate variability (HRV). High vagal tone is associated with a greater ability to regulate stress and maintain calmness, while low vagal tone can indicate stress or poor health.

Measurement

Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia in a Neonatal ECG

Vagal tone can be measured using various methods, including electrocardiography (ECG) to assess heart rate variability. One common method is the analysis of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), which is the natural increase in heart rate during inhalation and decrease during exhalation. This method is non-invasive and provides insights into the autonomic nervous system's function.

Clinical Significance

Vagal tone is an important indicator of cardiovascular health. High vagal tone is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, better emotional regulation, and improved immune function. Conversely, low vagal tone has been linked to anxiety, depression, and inflammation.

Research and Applications

RSA Measurement using the Bartsch Method

Research into vagal tone has expanded into various fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and medicine. It is used to study the effects of stress, relaxation techniques, and interventions such as biofeedback and meditation on autonomic function. Understanding vagal tone can help in developing treatments for stress-related disorders and improving overall well-being.

Related Pages

• Vagus nerve
• Heart rate variability
• Parasympathetic nervous system
• Respiratory sinus arrhythmia

References

• Porges, S. W. (1995). "Orienting in a defensive world: Mammalian modifications of our evolutionary heritage. A Polyvagal Theory." *Psychophysiology*, 32(4), 301-318.
• Thayer, J. F., & Lane, R. D. (2000). "A model of neurovisceral integration in emotion regulation and dysregulation." *Journal of Affective Disorders*, 61(3), 201-216.

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  Vagal tone analysis using VivoSense HR

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  Neonatal ECG, respiration, and heart rate

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  Bartsch method for respiratory sinus arrhythmia