Introduction to Blood Flow and Pressure Regulation

These flashcards summarize key concepts related to blood vessels, blood flow, and the regulatory mechanisms involved.

Pressure Gradient

The difference in pressure between two locations, necessary for blood flow.

Flow Equation

Flow equals change in pressure divided by resistance (F = ΔP/R).

Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)

The average pressure in the arteries during one cardiac cycle.

Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR)

The overall resistance to blood flow in the systemic circulation.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels, which increases resistance and decreases blood flow.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels, which decreases resistance and increases blood flow.

Arterioles

Small blood vessels that connect arteries to capillaries and regulate flow and resistance.

Compliance

The degree to which blood vessels can stretch under pressure, with veins having high compliance and arteries low compliance.

Systolic Pressure

The highest pressure in the arteries during heart contraction.

Diastolic Pressure

The lowest pressure in the arteries during heart relaxation.

Active Hyperemia

Increased blood flow to a tissue in response to increased metabolic activity.

Reactive Hyperemia

Increased blood flow to a tissue following a period of reduced blood flow.

Myogenic Response

The contraction of smooth muscle in blood vessels in response to stretch, aiding continuous blood flow.