Autonomic dysregulation as a potential regulator in otologic comorbidities of temporomandibular disorders

Objectives: To explore the role of autonomic dysregulation in otologic symptoms among individuals with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Methods: Data from 79,731 individuals were analyzed, categorized by the presence of TMD-related or otologic symptoms. Self-administered questionnaires screened TMD and otologic discomfort. Heart rate variability (HRV) and hearing impairment was measured. Results: Fully-adjusted regression models showed no significant relationship between HRV and otologic discomfort, However, subgroup analyses indicated significant interactions between HRV metrics and otologic symptoms in participants with TMD-related symptoms. Conclusions: Autonomic dysregulation may contribute to otologic discomfort in individuals with TMD, emphasizing its role in symptoms development.