Vasomotor system

Vasomotor System

The Vasomotor System is a component of the autonomic nervous system that regulates the contraction and dilation of blood vessels. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure and distributing blood to various parts of the body.

Function

The vasomotor system controls the diameter of blood vessels through vasoconstriction and vasodilation. Vasoconstriction refers to the narrowing of blood vessels, which increases blood pressure. On the other hand, vasodilation is the widening of blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure. These processes are primarily controlled by the sympathetic nervous system.

Components

The vasomotor system consists of vasomotor center, vasomotor nerves, and vasomotor receptors. The vasomotor center, located in the medulla oblongata, is responsible for the regulation of blood vessel diameter. Vasomotor nerves transmit signals from the vasomotor center to the blood vessels. Vasomotor receptors, such as baroreceptors and chemoreceptors, detect changes in blood pressure and blood chemistry, respectively, and send this information to the vasomotor center.

Clinical Significance

Disruptions in the vasomotor system can lead to various health conditions. For instance, vasomotor instability can result in hot flashes, a common symptom in menopausal women. Moreover, vasomotor rhinitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and congestion in the nasal passage due to abnormal vasomotor activity.

See Also

• Autonomic Nervous System
• Blood Pressure
• Vasoconstriction
• Vasodilation