Effect of Periglossal Electrical Stimulation on Haemodynamic Parameters in Stroke Patients- An Experimental Study

Introduction: Tongue stimulation has been used in rehabilitation of wide variety of patients like sleep apnea, multiple sclerosis and stroke patients. It helps in improving swallowing functions, balance and reducing sleep apnea symptoms. Tongue stimulation is also being used in stroke rehabilitation for improving balance.

Aim: To find out the effect of periglossal electrical stimulation on haemodynamic parameters in stroke patients.

Materials and Methods: The present study was an experimental study in which, 30 stroke patients in the age group of 30-60 years, admitted during the period between October 2020-March 2021, were included. Heart Rate (HR), Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), Respiratory Rate (RR) and oxygen saturation were measured before stimulation. All patients were given 15 minutes of tongue stimulation once. All the haemodynamic parameters were measured during the stimulation, immediately after tongue stimulation and 15 minutes after the completion of stimulation.

Results: There were 15 males and 15 females in the study. There were no significant changes in HR, RR and oxygen saturation during tongue stimulation (p>0.05). Although, there were statistically significant changes in SBP, DBP during tongue stimulation, they were clinically insignificant and returned to baseline within 15 minutes after stimulation.

Conclusion: Tongue stimulation has been found to be safe and effective for rehabilitation of stroke patients with respect to haemodynamic variables.