Gag reflex paper accepted in Journal of Applied Physiology

April 16, 2013 In this study, we found that tactile stimulation of the oropharynx increased MSNA and renal vascular resistance. In an additional study, local anesthesia (topical lidocaine inhalation) was used to block the gag reflex and also the HR and BP response to tactile stimulation. The full citation is:

Tactile stimulation of the oropharynx elicits sympathoexcitation in conscious humans.

Muller MD, Mast JL, Cui J, Heffernan MJ, McQuillan PM, Sinoway LI. IN PRESS, J Appl Physiol, accepted 04/16/13.