OBJECTIVETo explore the relationship between electroencephalogram and perceived stress in Chinese essential hypertension (EH) patients.

METHODSTotally 60 EH patients were enrolled as the case group,and 60 gender-and age-matched healthy subjects as the control group. Graded mental arithmetic was used as a psychological stressor. The physiological values of electroencephalogram (Theta,Alpha,sensorimotor rhythm,and Beta) were recorded at baseline and in mission period and recovery period. Subjects were instructed to complete the Perceived Stress Scale.

RESULTSThe electroencephalogram Theta value was significantly different between the case group and the control group (t=4.01,P=0.048). In the case group,the fluctuating Theta value was correlated with the control dimension in the Perceived Stress Scale (r=-0.26,P=0.044). Also in the case group,with the score of "sense of control" as the dependent variable and the fluctuating value of Theta after stress as the independent variables,regression analysis was performed. The opt-in standard was≤0.05 and the culling standard was≥0.01. The Results shows that the fluctuating value of Theta after stress in the case group met the requirements to enter the equation and could explain 5.2% of "sense of control" dimension.

CONCLUSIONThe Theta values associated with the sleeping and creativity decrease under stressful situations in EH patients following the increaed sense of pressure due to failure in controlling the pressure events.