Autonomic Cardiac Activity in Patients with Smoking and Alcohol Addiction by Heart Rate Variability Analysis.

PURPOSE: Smoking and alcohol addictions are common and worldwide. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the effects of these addictions on cardiac rhythm using heart rate variability (HRV) analysis.

METHODS: Addicts (n=42 men: 22 cigarette; 20 cigarette and alcohol) and age-matched controls (n=34 men) were included in the study. All patients fulfill the criteria for dependence according to DSM-IV-TR. Electrocardiography (ECG) recordings were obtained for a total of 30 minutes. Fagerstrom Nicotine Addiction Test (FNAT) and CAGE questionnaire (Cut down, Annoy, Guilt, Eye opener) was applied to all patients.

RESULTS: Almost all HRV parameters were significantly decreased in cigarette and cigarette and alcohol addicts compared with controls (p.