Autonomic dysregulation as a potential regulator in otologic comorbidities of temporomandibular disorders

Abstract

ObjectivesTo explore the role of autonomic dysregulation in otologic symptoms among individuals with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).MethodsData from 79,731 individuals were analyzed, categorized by the presence of TMD-related or otologic symptoms. Self-administered questionnaires screened TMD and otologic discomfort. Heart rate variability (HRV) and hearing impairment was measured.ResultsFully-adjusted regression models showed no significant relationship between HRV and otologic discomfort, However, subgroup analyses indicated significant interactions between HRV metrics and otologic symptoms in participants with TMD-related symptoms.ConclusionsAutonomic dysregulation may contribute to otologic discomfort in individuals with TMD, emphasizing its role in symptoms development.