Vasomotor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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vasomotor
[ˌveɪzoʊˈmoʊtər ]
Definition
medical term
The term 'vasomotor' refers to the regulation of blood vessel diameter through the contraction or relaxation of smooth muscle in the blood vessel walls. This process is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and ensuring adequate blood flow to various body tissues. Vasomotor responses can be influenced by various factors including neural and hormonal signals. An imbalance in vasomotor activity can lead to conditions such as hypertension or hypotension.
Synonyms
blood vessel regulating, vascular.
Examples of usage
- The doctor explained the vasomotor response during exercise.
- Vasomotor activity can be affected by temperature changes.
- She experienced vasomotor symptoms during her menopause.
- The research focused on the vasomotor regulation in the brain.
Translations
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Origin of 'vasomotor'
The term 'vasomotor' originates from the Latin roots 'vaso-', meaning 'vessel', and 'motor', derived from 'motus', meaning 'movement'. This indicates its relation to the mechanisms that cause movement or change in the blood vessels. The word emerged in the medical lexicon in the late 19th century as scientists began to better understand the physiological processes that control blood circulation. Early studies into the autonomic nervous system laid the groundwork for vasomotor research, leading to insights into how nerves and hormones interact to regulate vascular tone and blood flow. Over time, the concept has evolved, and the term is now widely used in various medical fields including cardiology and endocrinology, reflecting the importance of vasomotor functions in human health.