Does hypnotizability modulate the stress-related endothelial dysfunction?

Brain Res Bull. 2004 Apr 30;63(3):213-6. doi: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2004.01.011.

Abstract

Previous studies suggest that hypnotizability represents a protective factor against the cardiac effects of cognitive stress and that hypnosis prevents vascular stress-induced modifications in highly hypnotizable individuals. The aim of the experiment was to investigate whether a similar effect at vascular level is present in awake subjects with a high (Highs) and a low (Lows) hypnotic susceptibility. Thus, brachial artery post-ischaemic flow-mediated vascular dilation (FMD) was evaluated non-invasively by ultrasound methodology during cognitive stress (mental computation) in Highs and Lows. Results showed that Highs, similarly to that previously observed in hypnotized Highs and in contrast with Lows, did not exhibit any stress-related endothelial dysfunction (FMD decrement). Thus, hypnotizability should be considered a protective factor against vascular disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypnosis*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Stress, Psychological / therapy*
  • Vasodilation / physiology