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baroreceptor |
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baroreceptor /baro·re·cep·tor/ (-re-sep´ter) a type of interoceptor that is stimulated by pressure changes, as those in blood vessel walls.
baroreceptor [ber′ōrisep′tər] Etymology: Gk, baros + L, recipere, to receive one of the pressure-sensitive nerve endings in the walls of the atria of the heart, the aortic arch, and the carotid sinuses. Baroreceptors stimulate central reflex mechanisms that allow physiologic adjustment and adaptation to changes in blood pressure via changes in heart rate, vasodilation, or vasoconstriction. Baroreceptors are essential for homeostasis. Also called pressoreceptor. baroreceptor (baˑ·r n receptor cell in the bloodstream that relays information about blood pressure to the medulla oblongata. baroreceptor a sensory nerve terminal that is stimulated by changes in pressure, as those in blood vessel walls. baroreceptor reflex reflexes triggered by changes in pressure, usually refers to blood pressure, e.g. carotid sinus reflex. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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Patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease were described as elderly patients, those with increased sensitivity of baroreceptors, and those with carotid artery plaques or a history of hypotension or hypertension. When the baroreceptors sense low blood pressure, they generate signals that cause nerves of the autonomic nervous system to speed up heart rate and constrict blood vessels. |
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