Root Mean Square of the Successive Differences as Marker of the Parasympathetic System and Difference in the Outcome after ANS Stimulation

Abstract

The autonomic nervous system has a huge impact on the cardiac regulatory mechanism, and many markers exist for evaluating it. In this chapter we are going to focus on the RMSSD (Root mean square of successive differences), considered the most precise marker for the parasympathetic effector on the heart. Before is necessary to learn what the Heart Rate Variability is and how it works, which type of range of HRV exists and how we can measure it. Finally, there will be a presentation of how the RMSSD can be used in different field, and how and why the outcome can change and what does it mean.