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DRPOV: You Just Had Your Pacemaker Out
Sources-
PMID 41380061
omninaut on TT
The vagus nerve is the “superhighway” of the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “rest and digest” state. It originates in the brainstem and wanders throughout the body, regulating heart rate, digestion, and respiratory rate. When the body is in a state of high stress or tachycardia (a racing heart), certain physical maneuvers can stimulate the vagus nerve to release acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter acts as a natural brake, signalng the heart to slow down and the nervous system to calm. These techniques are often referred to as vagal maneuvers.
One of the most effective methods is the Valsalva Maneuver, which involves exhaling forcefully against a closed airway. A common clinical way to perform this is by “blowing into a syringe” or a thin tube for about 15 seconds. This creates intense internal pressure in the chest (intrathoracic pressure), which stimulates baroreceptors in the heart and carotid arteries. These receptors send a signal to the vagus nerve to lower blood pressure and heart rate immediately. Similarly, breath-holding or the “Diving Reflex”, which is triggered by splashing ice-cold water on the face while holding your breath, causes an immediate vagal surge. The body perceives the “cold-water immersion” as a signal to conserve oxygen, resulting in a rapid drop in heart rate.
#heart #heartrate #pacemaker
@drsermedmezher
