Consciousness Studies and Cardiovascular Health

Consciousness Studies and Cardiovascular Health

The objective of the study is to evaluate whether a virtual reality (VR) based intervention combining binaural beats, photic stimulation, and real-time biofeedback reduces stress and improves physiological markers compared to non-VR interventions and usual care in patients that go to cardiology clinic.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18 and older
• Able to provide informed consent (English only for pilot)
• Chronic Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors/ Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SSRI/SNRI) or Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) meds allowed (recorded)
• Normal vision and hearing
• Stable vitals (HR 55-100 bpm, Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) 90-160mmHg (millimeters of mercury, afebrile)
• Willing to abstain 6 hours pre-session from caffeine, nicotine, heavy exercise
• Willing to tolerate electroencephalogram (EEG) headband, Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) electrodes are small sensors placed on the skin (usually fingers or palm) and virtual reality (VR) headset

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of seizure disorder or photosensitive epilepsy
• Migraine with visual aura
• Retinal disease sensitive to flicker
• Unstable cardiac disease
• Dysautonomia
• Recent sedative use (benzodiazepines, opioids)
• Beta blocker dose changes within last 7 days
• Alcohol or recreational drugs within 12 hours
• Active panic disorder
• Severe motion sickness
• Scalp conditions preventing EEG contact
• Severe visual or hearing impairment Cognitive impairment
• Non-English speakers (pilot in English only)