A study on the respirator effects on cardiovascular system

Background and Respirators (respiratory protective equipments) are widely used, but many of their health impacts, especially cardiovascular effects, have not been determined. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of using respirators on heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This interventional study was undertaken on 40 healthy 20-30 years old young men. Their heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure at rest and at the end of 5 minutes 7kcal/min exertion with ergometer were measured. Âfter 15 minutes rest, this process was repeated, while the person was breathing via respirators. The data were analyzed using SPSS, descriptive statistics and paired t-test. Üsing respirator during heavy work increased the mean value of heart rate to 8.5 beat/min, systolic and diastolic blood pressure 7.4 and 4.9 mmHg respectively. Çonclusion: This study showed that respirator imposes additional load on cardiovascular system. Âlthough these increases may seem inconsiderable, these mild increases of heart rate and blood pressure can be threatening in workers with hypertension, coronary artery disease and many other cardiovascular disorders.