The Effect of Acute Mild Dehydration on Blood Pressure Control

Sympathetic Reactivity to Water Restriction in Young and Older Adults

The goal of this project is determine how acute mild dehydration impacts blood pressure control at rest and during static exercise. This protocol will test healthy young and older adults in a normally hydrated and dehydrated condition.

The purpose of this project is determine how acute mild dehydration impacts blood pressure control at rest and during static exercise. Additionally, we will determine whether or not the sympathetic nervous system has a role in mediating blood pressure control at rest and during static exercise. This protocol will test healthy young and older adults in a normally hydrated and dehydrated condition. This will allow for a within participant comparison. Additionally, we will later determine if age alters blood pressure control at rest or during static exercise.

Inclusion Criteria (Young):

• age: 20-35 years old

Exclusion Criteria (Young):

• high blood pressure (>140/90 mmHg)
• history of cardiovascular disease
• history of cancer
• history of diabetes
• history of kidney disease
• obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2)
• smoking or tobacco use
• current pregnancy
• nursing mothers
• communication barriers

Inclusion Criteria (Older):

• age: 60-75 years old
• ECG within normal limits
• screening blood panel within normal limits

Exclusion Criteria (Older):

• high blood pressure (>140/90 mmHg)
• history of cardiovascular disease
• history of cancer
• history of diabetes
• history of kidney disease
• obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2)
• smoking or tobacco use
• current pregnancy
• nursing mothers
• communication barriers