Recovery pulse rate and cardiovascular function indices in young female adults following orthostasis.

Abstract

Background: Recovery pulse rate (RPR) and other cardiovascular indices - such as heart rate variability and blood pressure recovery - are underutilized tools in assessing autonomic and cardiovascular adaptability to orthostasis. While orthostatic hypotension is well-documented, the prognostic significance of delayed heart rate recovery and impaired autonomic compensation remains insufficiently explored. Emerging evidence suggests that abnormal RPR may predict cardiovascular morbidity and autonomic dysfunction; however, standardized clinical guidelines for its interpretation are lacking. Bridging this gap could enhance early detection of dysautonomia and cardiovascular risk stratification.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the pattern of RPR and cardiovascular function indices in healthy young female adults following 10 min of upright standing.

Methods: This study evaluated post-orthostatic cardiovascular indices, including RPR measured at two intervals: 10 - 20 s and 21 - 31 s after returning to a reclining sitting position. A total of 35 healthy females were selected for the study, and appropriate inclusion was duly considered. Blood pressure, pulse rate, and other parameters were measured at baseline, after 10 min of standing, and after returning to a reclining sitting position using standard procedures. The first and second RPRs were calculated as the difference between the orthostatic pulse rate and the pulse rate measured during the two intervals, respectively, after returning to a reclining sitting position.

Results: There was no significant difference between the first and second RPRs. Among the cardiovascular parameters, only systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure measured after the second RPR were significantly higher than baseline values. In addition, neither the first nor the second RPR correlated with body weight, height, or body mass index.

Conclusion: No significant difference was found in autonomic response during the 10 - 20 s and 21 - 31 s post-orthostatic periods in young adult females. Incorporating RPR and related indices into clinical practice provides a non-invasive, cost-effective method to identify and monitor autonomic and cardiovascular dysfunction. This can guide therapeutic strategies, such as fluid management, exercise rehabilitation, or pharmacological interventions, tailored to improve autonomic balance and cardiovascular resilience.