Abstract
Background: The 35% CO2 challenge is a well-established method triggering panic attacks under laboratory-controlled conditions. There is an ongoing debate whether single or the joined effects of the instructional set and anxiety sensitivity (AS) can alter the outcome of the challenge. Objectives: The present study investigated the effects of instruction manipulation and AS on panic-like response to the 35% CO2 challenge. Methods: Eighty healthy subjects, with high or low levels of AS, were randomized into 4 groups based on standard/manipulated instructional sets as well as 35% CO2 mixture/room air inhalation. Subjects filled in the Visual Analogue Scale of Anxiety (VAAS), the Visual Analogue Scale of Fear (VAS-F), the VAS of Discomfort (VAS-D), and the Panic Symptom List (PSL). Blood pressure and heart rate were measured at pre- and posttest. Results: Hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed greater psychological responses at VAAS, VAS-F, VAS-D, and PSL and higher systolic blood pressure under 35% CO2 challenge if compared to room air inhalation while instructional set and AS did not influence the response. Conclusions: The present study confirms that neither instructional test nor AS alter the outcome of the 35% CO2 challenge.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 209-217 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Neuropsychobiology |
Volume | 78 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Nov 2019 |
Keywords
- Anxiety sensitivity
- Panic
- CO2 challenge
- Instruction manipulation
- CARBON-DIOXIDE
- TRAIT ANXIETY
- SOMATOSENSORY AMPLIFICATION
- INSTRUCTIONAL SET
- DISORDER
- DIMENSIONS
- ALEXITHYMIA
- RELIABILITY
- INHALATION
- REACTIVITY