The effect of beta-blocking drugs on perceived exertion in post MI cardiac patients

Abstract

Gunner Borg introduced his perceptual scale to American scientists in 1967. This 'Borg Scale' has gained considerable attention in the cardiac rehabilitation area as a psychological complement to physiological responses to exercise. Also beta-blocking drugs are a widely accepted measure used to control the cardiac oxygen demand in post MI patients.

The relationship between beta-blockade and perceived exertion has received a minimal amount of attention in recent years, and it is this relationship in which the purpose of this study is involved. The pharmacological effects of beta-blockers are numerous and will be explained in detail in Chapter Two. The main effect is to decrease the myocardial oxygen demand by decreasing the heart rate and contractility.

These drugs are also known to have side effects on some patients such as mental depression and muscle weakness, which are obviously two factors which could alter a patient's perceived exertion rating.