THE EFFECT OF BEDREST ON VARIOUS PARAMETERS OF PHYSIOLOGICAL FUNCTION PART IX.THE EFFECT ON THE VITAL SIGNS AND CIRCULATORY DYNAMICS

摘要

This study was carried out to evaluate if periods of 3 days and of 14 days of bedrest would produce changes in the vital signs and in the duration of phases of the cardiac cycle. The results of 3 days indicated no obvious signs of circulatory "deconditioning". When bedrest lasted 14 days, there was a trend for the blood pressure to increase throughout confinement. Circadian rhythms in the cardiac dynamics were detected. The values of the systolic and isotonic ratios and of the pulse wave velocity suggest a slight degree of stress under the conditions of the experiment. A program of isometric exercises during bedrest caused cardiodynamic changes which are strongly suggestive of greater stress.