Using Network Analysis to Examine the Relationship between Specific Panic Symptoms and Heart Rate Variability

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between individual panic symptoms and heart rate variability (HRV). Participants were recruited from a psychiatric outpatient clinic. HRV indices were derived from electrocardiogram (ECG) records. Panic symptoms and anxiety were measured using the panic disorder distress scale (PDSS) and state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI). With these data, network analysis was conducted and the strongest node in the network was 'PDSS 3 (anticipatory anxiety)' and mean RR intervals. There were both positive and negative edges between HRV variables and psychological variables in the network. The relationship between variables revealed from the analysis is discussed. Clinical Relevance- The result of this study cast light on the specific mechanism of how panic symptoms are related to HRV measures which is an important indicator of autonomic nervous system activity.