The vasodilation caused by the consumption of alcohol increases the diameter of blood vessels, which increases the volume of blood that can pass through a vessel. This dilation of blood vessels decreases the amount of venous return to the heart. Also, this increased diameter of blood vessels and increased volume allows for less of the blood to come in contact with the walls of the vessels. So a larger volume of blood is allowed to pass through a vessel without obstruction, characterizing a decrease in peripheral resistance. This increased blood flow is explained by an immediate increase in heart rate, which is what allows for more blood to pass through the vessels.
The decreased blood pressure, caused by an increased vessel diameter, is detected by baroreceptors, where an action potential is sent to the brain. Neurotransmitters are released from the brain which prompt the adrenal gland to release hormones such as epinephrine, which act as vasoconstrictors.
As alcohol consumption …show more content…
Again, the dilation of blood vessels decreases the venous return, and therefore the filling of the heart. Just as before, this process of vasodilation decreases blood pressure, increases heart rate, and decreases peripheral resistance, but continues with prolonged exposure to such hot water. Also, an increase in heart rate is caused by a decrease in filling volume and increase stroke volume and end diastolic volume. With an increased heart rate, we’d also observe increased cardiac