Abstract
The existing literature concerning pulse wave velocity deals with the effect of disease, age, sex and physiologic and pharmacologic stimuli on pulse wave velocity in groups of individuals. Spontaneous fluctuations in the same individual from time to time have received slight consideration. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4
We have measured repeatedly during a period of 6 months the pulse wave velocity in 6 normal individuals of 22 to 45 years of age. A simplified modification of a technic previously described 5 was used, which employs carbon grain microphones and 2 Einthoven string galvanometers. Carotid and either radial or index fingertip sphygmograms, together with respiratory movements, were recorded simultaneously and measurements made from reference points on the ascending limbs one-fifth of the vertical distance from beginning of upstroke to the peak. Brachial blood pressure was taken immediately following the taking of the record. With a camera speed of 10 cm. per second measurements were made with accuracy to 0.002 second. Subjects were examined at approximately the same time of day, in the sitting position (unless indicated otherwise) with the arms resting horizontally on supports. Preliminary rest periods varied from 5 to 45 minutes. Room temperatures were fairly constant. Noises and other demands upon the subjects'attention were kept at a minimum.
Careful scrutiny of Table I shows that for the group as a whole there is no apparent correlation between pulse wave velocity and systolic and diastolic pressure. When pulse wave velocity for each subject was plotted against systolic and diastolic blood pressures the following relationships were noted:
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