Evaluation of circadian oscillation of the autonomic nervous system by spectral analysis of heart rate variability

The authors studied whether the circadian oscillation of the autonomic nervous system can be evaluated by analysis of heart rate variability derived from 24-hour ambulatory electrocardiograms (Holter ECGs) on healthy subjects, diabetic patients, and hypertensive patients. While the circadian oscillation of the autonomic nervous system was distinct in healthy subjects, it almost disappeared in diabetic patients. Furthermore, the circadian oscillation of the autonomic nervous system was suppressed by alpha , beta blocker administration in hypertensive patients. It is therefore concluded that the circadian oscillation of the autonomic nervous system can be evaluated by analyzing heart rate variability derived from Holter ECG.< >