Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Related

Review Cardiovascular System Exam Questions related questions and content

Which of the following is a central vasodilator and peripheral vasoconstrictor?

  • A. Sympathetic nervous system
  • B. Parasympathetic nervous system
  • C. Norepinephrine
  • D. Acetylcholine
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Sympathetic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system releases norepinephrine, which acts as a central vasodilator by dilating blood vessels in the heart and skeletal muscles. It also acts as a peripheral vasoconstrictor by constricting blood vessels in other areas to redirect blood flow to vital organs during fight-or-flight responses.

B: Parasympathetic nervous system is incorrect as it primarily promotes rest and digestion, not vasodilation or vasoconstriction.

C: Norepinephrine is incorrect as it acts as a peripheral vasoconstrictor, not a central vasodilator.

D: Acetylcholine is incorrect as it primarily functions in the parasympathetic nervous system and is not associated with central vasodilation or peripheral vasoconstriction.