CV Physiology

Question 1

What factors affect arterial blood pressure?

Answer 1

Cardiac output and vessel resistance; arterial pressure increases as cardiac output increases or if arterioles constrict

Question 2

What is the arterial baroreflex?

Answer 2

The negative feedback control mechanism to regulate CV fxn in response to postural changes; baroreceptors are most densely located in the carotid sinus and aortic arch; fxn as stretch-receptors—sense changes in arterial blood pressure and when activated cause a decrease in vascular smooth muscle activity and thus a decrease in blood pressure; baroreflex is active ALL THE TIME