Vasoconstriction

Definition

Vasoconstriction is the narrowing of the blood vessels due to the contraction of the muscular walls of the vessels, primarily in small arteries and arterioles. This process decreases blood flow and increases blood pressure within the vessel.

Related terms

Blood Pressure:

The force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels, often measured to assess heart health.

Arterioles:

Small branches of arteries leading into capillaries, responsible for regulating blood flow and pressure in various tissues.

Vasodilation:

The widening of blood vessels resulting from relaxation of muscular walls, increasing blood flow and decreasing blood pressure