Abstract
The effects of cigarette smoking on cardiovascular outputs (blood pressure and pulse) and properties (Na+, total protein and amylase activity, pH, volume and viscosity) of saliva were examined in smokers. As a control, drawing of a cigarette filter was done instead of cigarette smoking. Saliva samples were collected by expectorating into a cylinder for 2 min, every 10 min. Immediately after expectoration, the volume, viscosity, pH and concentration of Na+ of the saliva were determined. The viscosity was measured by NEVA (New Equipment for Viscosity Assessment; Ishikawa Iron Works Corporation, Kitakyushu) meter. The collected saliva was maintained on ice, and then concentrations of protein and amylase activity were also measured. The blood pressure and pulse were slightly decreased in drawing a filter. Smoking increased blood pressure and pulse and volume of saliva, comparing with those in the control. We are going to investigate the effects of drawing a filter on properties of saliva in smokers and non-smokers. [Jpn J Physiol 54 Suppl:S201 (2004)]
