vasoconstriction

(vā'zō-kən-strĭk'shən)
n.
Constriction of a blood vessel, as by a nerve or drug.

vasoconstrictive vas'o·con·stric'tive adj.

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Constriction of the blood vessels; the reverse of vasodilatation.

Narrowing of the blood vessels, especially arteries and arterioles (small arteries). Constricted blood vessels can cause insufficient blood supply to the tissues and can contribute to high blood pressure (hypertension).

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A decrease in the diameter of blood vessels (usually arterioles) resulting in a reduction of blood flow to the area supplied by the vessel. Factors causing vasoconstriction include pain, loud noises, fear, a fall in temperature, and a fall in blood pressure.

Decrease in the caliber of blood vessels; may be general or local, e.g. pulmonary, peripheral.

For a list of words related to vasoconstriction, see:

• Physiology - vasoconstriction: narrowing of blood vessel

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