What are the factors affecting peripheral resistance which influence BP?

Peripheral resistance is the resistance to blood flow in the systemic circulation. It is determined by the diameter of the blood vessels and the viscosity of the blood.

Factors affecting peripheral resistance that can influence blood pressure include:

1. Blood vessel diameter: The narrower the blood vessels, the higher the peripheral resistance and the higher the blood pressure. Conversely, the wider the blood vessels, the lower the peripheral resistance and the lower the blood pressure.

Factors that can cause blood vessels to narrow include:

- Atherosclerosis: A buildup of plaque in the arteries can narrow the arteries and increase peripheral resistance.

- Vasospasm: A sudden constriction of blood vessels can also increase peripheral resistance.

- Smoking: Smoking can damage the blood vessels and cause them to narrow.

Factors that can cause blood vessels to widen include:

- Exercise: Exercise can help to dilate blood vessels and lower peripheral resistance.

- Medications: Certain medications, such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, can also dilate blood vessels and lower peripheral resistance.

2. Blood viscosity: The thicker the blood, the higher the peripheral resistance and the higher the blood pressure. Conversely, the thinner the blood, the lower the peripheral resistance and the lower the blood pressure.

Factors that can increase blood viscosity include:

- Dehydration: Dehydration can cause the blood to become thicker and more viscous,

- High levels of red blood cells: A high red blood cell count can also increase blood viscosity.

- High levels of cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol can also increase blood viscosity.

Factors that can decrease blood viscosity include:

- Drinking plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help to thin the blood and lower peripheral resistance.

- Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood viscosity.

- Getting regular exercise: Exercise can help to increase red blood cell production and lower cholesterol levels, which can both help to decrease blood viscosity.