Gefäßerweiternd

Gefäßerweiternd, also known as vasodilation, is the widening of blood vessels. This process occurs when the smooth muscles in the walls of the blood vessels relax. Vasodilation can be caused by various factors, including physiological signals, chemical compounds, and certain medications.

Physiologically, vasodilation plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and body temperature. When body temperature rises, blood vessels near the skin surface widen to release heat, helping to cool the body. In situations of low blood pressure, vasodilation can exacerbate the problem by further reducing the pressure within the circulatory system.

Chemically, several substances can induce vasodilation. Nitric oxide is a key molecule produced by the cells lining blood vessels, which signals the smooth muscles to relax. Other endogenous substances like bradykinin and prostaglandins also contribute to this effect.

Pharmacologically, gefäßerweiternd properties are exploited in the treatment of various cardiovascular conditions. Medications like nitrates are used to treat angina by widening coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart. Calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors are also commonly prescribed to manage hypertension by promoting vasodilation. Conversely, vasoconstriction, the narrowing of blood vessels, has the opposite effect, increasing blood pressure and restricting blood flow. Understanding the mechanisms of vasodilation is vital in medicine for both understanding physiological processes and developing therapeutic interventions.