Comparative characteristic of heart rate variability and biochemical parameters in relation to night-shift work in hypertensive patients permanently living in Tyumen Priobje

Objective. To assess heart rate variability (HRV) and some biochemical and echocardiographic parameters in hypertensive patients and in the control group living in Tyumen Priobje. Design and methods. 52 patients with stage 1 or 2 of arterial hypertension and 32 sex- and age-matching healthy subjects aged 20-50 years living permanently in Tyumen Priobje were examined. 5-minute ECG was recorded at baseline (at out-paient department in the town of Pyt-Yakh) using standard method, and analysis of time and spectral parameters was performed. Lipid profile and blood glucose were measured. The groups did not differ by shift work schedules (presence or absence of night shift). Results. The functional condition of hypertensive patients and controls permanently living in Tyumen Priobje is characterized by overexertion of regulatory systems in the controls and exhaustion of regulatory systems in hypertensive patients. The time and spectral parameters of HRV indicate a predominance of sympathetic regulation in hypertensive patients. Night shift work influences the activity of sympathetic regulation of heart rate, affecting its circadian rhythm in both hypertensives and controls. Healthy subjects are initially characterized by overexertion of regulatory system activity and they are at risk of developing cardiovascular pathology. As arterial hypertension progresses a reduction in overall HRV structure is observed. Night shift work contributes to more rapid change in functional condition towards the exhaustion phase.