Vasoconstriction Health Article

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Table of Contents

Definition

Reviewer Info: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. ; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 02/23/2009

Definition

Vasoconstriction is the narrowing (constriction) of blood vessels by muscles in their walls. When blood vessels constrict, the flow of blood is restricted or slowed.

Vasoconstriction may be slight or severe. It may result from disease, medication, or psychological conditions. Medications that cause vasoconstriction include:

Decongestants, including pseudoephedrine
Cough and cold combinations
Caffeine

Medications may be used to increase or reduce vasoconstriction in very ill patients.

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Vasocontriction

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