vasoconstriction
vas·o·con·stric·tion / ˌvāzōkənˈstrikshən; ˌvasō-/ • n. the constriction of blood vessels, which increases blood pressure.DERIVATIVES: vas·o·con·stric·tive / -ˈstriktiv/ adj.vas·o·con·stric·tor / -ˈstriktər/ n.
vasoconstrictor
vasoconstrictor (vay-zoh-kŏn-strik-ter) n. an agent that causes narrowing of the blood vessels and therefore a decrease in blood flow. Vasoconstrictors are alpha agonists (see sympathomimetic), used to raise the blood pressure in disorders of the circulation, shock, or severe bleeding and to maintain blood pressure during surgery (see ephedrine, metaraminol, phenylephrine). Some (e.g. ephedrine, xylometazoline) are used to treat nasal congestion.
vasoconstriction
vasoconstriction The reduction in the internal diameter of blood vessels, especially arterioles or capillaries. The constriction of arterioles is mediated by the action of nerves on the smooth muscle fibres of the arteriole walls and results in an increase in blood pressure.
vasoconstrictor
vasoconstrictor Any substance that causes constriction of blood vessels and, therefore, decreased blood flow. Examples include noradrenaline, angiotensin, and the hormone vasopressin (also known as anti-diuretic hormone).
vasoconstriction
vasoconstriction Constriction of the blood vessels; the reverse of vasodilatation.
More From encyclopedia.com
About this article
Vasoconstriction
All Sources -
NEARBY TERMS
Vasoconstriction