Hypertension-related hypoalgesia, autonomic function and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity.

Objective: The mechanisms involved in the relationship between pain perception and hypertension are poorly understood. This study has sought to investigate whether the spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity and the autonomic nervous system balance are related to hypertension-associated hypoalgesia.

Methods: In the morning, 73 untreated male subjects (45 hypertensives, 28 normotensives) were submitted to a simultaneous recording of electrocardiographic and blood pressure signals in resting condition.

Changes in pain perception during treatment with angiotensin converting enzyme-inhibitors and angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockade.

Objectives: Besides the well-known role of the angiotensin system in blood pressure control, an interaction of angiotensin and pain perception has been suggested. This study sought to investigate whether an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, which facilitates bradykinins, algesic peptides, and/or an AT1 receptor antagonist may modify hypertension-related hypoalgesia in humans. The study was approved by the ethical committee of our Department.