Pulse Rate Variability for Detection of Autonomic Tone of an Individual

Excessive psychological stress has major impact on Autonomic nervous system (ANS). Perceived stress is one of the outcome caused due to stressful audio-visual stimulus that makes the person feel threatened or upset. Pulse rate variability (PRV) is an approach which detects the variation in ANS caused due to stressful stimulus. To compute PRV, Photoplethysmography (PPG) signal was acquired using fingertip pulse sensor which is interfaced to a microcontroller. From PPG signal, PRV parameters are computed in time domain, frequency domain and geometric domain which helps to quantify the level of stress induced due to stressful audio-visual stimulus. These parameters are then transmitted to the server through GSM module. The PRV parameters are retrieved from server and displayed on an Android app which is easier to monitor the stress anywhere and anytime.