FACTORS AFFECTING HOME BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE VARIABILITY POST-COVID INFECTION

ABSTRACT

Objective: There is a scarcity of data on the factors that influence home blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) variability. This study was undertaken to determine the factors that influence home BP and HR fluctuation post COVID infection in the urban Indian population. Designs and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 1000 patients between the ages of 30 and 80 who were previously infected with COVID- 19 infection, but not hospitalized. These patients were guided and trained to measure BP at home. BP and HR readings were taken at home twice a day, in the morning and evening, for seven days (28 measurements). The SD of morning minus evening, and first minus second readings was used to calculate BP and HR variability. Results: Old age, cardiovascular illness, diabetes, and high home blood pressure were all found to be independent predictors of an increased morning than evening home blood pressure variability. Old age, and high home blood pressure were all independent determinants of greater day-to-day home blood pressure variability, while old age, female sex, cardiovascular disease, and high home blood pressure were all independent determinants of greater first versus second home blood pressure variability. Young age, and high home HR, on the other hand, were all independent drivers of increased morning vs evening variability. Young age, female sex, and a high home HR were also independent predictors of first versus second home HR variability. Conclusion: Considering home BP and HR fluctuation have prognostic value, it is critical for clinicians to understand the underlying reasons for these variables. Doctors should focus on alcohol, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease prevention counseling for their high-risk patients. (Table Presented).