Atrial reflex

Definition

The atrial reflex, also known as Bainbridge reflex, is a physiological response where an increase in blood volume in the atria of the heart causes an increase in heart rate. This mechanism helps regulate blood pressure and cardiac output by adjusting the heart rate to match the volume of incoming blood.

Related terms

Cardiac Output:

The total volume of blood pumped by the ventricle per minute; it adjusts based on bodily demands.

Blood Pressure:

The force that circulating blood exerts against the walls of blood vessels; influenced by cardiac output and resistance of the vessels.

Heart Rate:

The number of heartbeats per unit of time, usually per minute; a key component regulated for maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis