Virtual reality and classical music reduce blood pressure in ER patients

A randomized controlled trial presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress suggests that virtual reality (VR) combined with classical music can significantly reduce blood pressure and anxiety in emergency department patients. The study, conducted by researchers at Ankara City Health Application and Research Center and Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, involved 130 adult patients presenting with hypertensive urgency.

Participants used VR headsets to view immersive natural landscapes, such as flowing rivers and trees, while listening to classical music from composers including Bach, Mozart, Debussy, Vivaldi, and Tchaikovsky. The intervention resulted in a statistically significant drop in mean arterial pressure within 15 to 30 minutes of arrival.

Lead investigator Dr. Safa Dönmez noted that the emotional distress and anxiety common in emergency settings can trigger stress hormones that tighten blood vessels and further elevate blood pressure. The study aims to address both the physiological and emotional needs of patients experiencing acute hypertensive episodes.