Detection of Acute Stress by Heart Rate Variability Using a Prototype Mobile ECG Sensor

Abstract

Mental stress affects our body often detrimentally. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis is commonly used as a quantitative marker depicting the activity of autonomic nervous system that may be related to mental stress. HRV features can be extracted by detecting QRS complexes from electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. A miniature ECG device can enable HRV features to be measured anytime and anywhere. We developed an ECG analysis software suitable for signals generated from a prototype mobile ECG sensor. Our analysis software was able to detect 99.3% of the QRS complexes correctly. HRV features were different by less than 3.0% when a well-validated heartbeat sensor was simultaneously used. Significant changes of HRV features were detected during Stroop color word test that induced acute stress. We showed a feasibility of using a mobile ECG sensor to detect subtle changes in HRV features that may enable stress monitoring and management in daily life.