Periictal heart rate variability analysis suggests long‐term postictal autonomic disturbance in epilepsy

Abstract

We found decreased HRV immediately after the seizures, which lasted at least 5-6 h postictally, indicating a long-term postictal disturbance of the autonomous nervous system. GTCS were accompanied by a more decreased HRV than other seizures. Our results may have relevance in explaining pathomechanism of SUDEP.

Synchronization analysis between heart rate variability and EEG activity before, during, and after epileptic seizure

“…This postictal synchronization was more pronounced in the left-focus group. Severe postictal disturbances (dysregulations) of the ANS over a time range of 5-6 h are described by Toth et al [37] (HRV analysis). Therefore, it is not surprising that we found stronger synchronizations in both groups in comparison to those of the preictal period.…”

Pain-related autonomic response is modulated by the medial prefrontal cortex: An ECG–fMRI study in men

“…In our previous study we found that shortterm HRV decrease after epileptic seizures [51]. Following our experience with HRV, we tried to apply it to similar conditions, such as somatic pain stimulation.…”

Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy: An Overview

“…Authors could not determine a clear-cut ECG abnormality that may be considered as a predictor for SUDEP. However, in other studies, authors observed an elevation of heart rate immediately after seizures, which were maintained for 5-6 hours postically, indicating a long-term postictal disturbance of the autonomous nervous system, suggesting that seizures may cause prolonged heart dysfunction (Toth et al, 2010;Pinto et al, 2011). Although seizure-induced asystole is a rare complication and tended to follow a period of apnea, epilepsy can be correlated to severe bradycardia or asystole (Walker & Fisch, 1997).…”