Does Pulmonary Function Testing Affect Autonomic Nervous System Activity?
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Date
2026-03
Authors
Yalçın, Gülay
Erdoğmuş Gülcan, Server
Kavlak, Erdoğan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
GALENOS PUBL HOUSE
Abstract
Objective: The autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates vital functions such as heart rate (HR) and respiration. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs), which require forced breathing maneuvers, may influence ANS activity, potentially affecting the accuracy of autonomic measurements. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PFT on ANS activity and to assess the reliability of the test order.
Material and methods: Forty-eight healthy university students (32 women, 16 men; mean age 19±0.92 years) participated. ANS activity was assessed by heart rate variability (HRV) analysis using the Elite HRV Corsense device. HRV was recorded at rest in a seated position (first measurement), was repeated after a 5-minute rest (second measurement), and was recorded again following PFT performed with a Medwelt SP10 spirometer (third measurement).
Results: Comparison of the first and second measurements showed a statistically significant increase only in the root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) parameter, with no significant changes in other indices. Comparison of the second and third measurements revealed no significant differences in RMSSD or average HR; however, significant changes were observed in the low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) components and in the LF/HF ratio.
Conclusion: Respiratory maneuvers during PFT may temporarily alter ANS activity, particularly affecting parasympathetic-sympathetic balance. The differences between the first and second measurements emphasize the importance of adequate rest periods before HRV assessment. Measurements taken prior to PFT appear to be more reliable for the accurate evaluation of autonomic function.
Description
Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI)
Keywords
Autonomic nervous system , health economics , heart rate variability , pulmonary function test.
Citation
Yalçın, G., Erdoğmuş Gülcan, S., & Kavlak, E. (2026). Does Pulmonary Function Testing Affect Autonomic Nervous System Activity?. Thoracic research and practice, 27(2), 83–89. https://doi.org/10.4274/ThoracResPract.2026.2025-8-1
