International Journal of Health Sciences

Assessment of Levels of Salivary Cortisol and Stress in Patients with Signs and Symptoms of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Karina Job Di Laccio, Alana Schraiber Colato, Gilson Pires Dorneles, Alessandra Peres

Abstract
Introduction: The temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) has represented a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge today. Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between levels of salivary cortisol and stress in patients with signs and symptoms of TMD. Methods: 30 volunteers of both sexes, aged between 20 and 50 years and those with signs and symptoms of TMD. Been reported stress levels through Stress Inventory for adults of Lipp (ISSL), Perceived Stress Analysis and analysis of salivary cortisol. Results: The sample consisted of 55.2 % of participants were female and 44.8 % male. The percentage of participants who had stress according to the ISSL was 69% and the phase of resistance was the most significant at 65%. There was a predominance of psychological Stress (76.9 %). Women showed a higher frequency of stress than men in ISSL and also higher rates in the Perceived Stress Scale. Cortisol levels in both groups were above the reference values and observed results in the levels of cortisol in the morning higher in men compared to women.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/ijhs.v2n4a5