Vasoconstriction

Definition

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

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vasoconstriction is a crucial component of the body's response to inflammation, helping to limit blood loss and control bleeding.
2. Chemical mediators like histamines and cytokines play significant roles in regulating vasoconstriction during the inflammatory response.
3. Vasoconstriction can be induced by both physiological factors (like cold temperatures) and pathological conditions (such as infection or injury).
4. During fever, vasoconstriction helps to retain heat in the body's core, contributing to an elevated body temperature.
5. Overactive or prolonged vasoconstriction can lead to tissue hypoxia, where tissues receive insufficient oxygen due to reduced blood flow.

Review Questions

Related terms

Inflammation:

A biological response to harmful stimuli characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.

Cytokines:

Small proteins released by cells that have a specific effect on interactions and communications between cells.

Hypoxia: A condition in which a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level.