Vasodilation refers to a widening of the blood vessels within the body. This occurs when the smooth muscles in the arteries and major veins relax. Vasodilation occurs naturally in response to low oxygen levels or increases in body temperature. Its purpose is to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to parts of the body that need it most.
A sign of vasodilation a person may get is a pinking effect on the skin, which shows a localised increase of blood flow to the area. Vasodilation increases blood flow, reduces swelling and also helps with the regulation of body temperature. A variety of techniques can be used to encourage vasodilation during a massage. A massage promotes the release of histamine. Histamine acts as a neurotransmitter that increases the permeability of blood vessels. Increasing the permeability of blood vessels results in vasodilation.
Vasodilation
What causes vasodilation?
There are many possible causes of vasodilation. Some of them include:
- Alcohol
- Inflammation
- Natural chemicals
- Exercise
What else affects vasodilation?
A variety of environmental and personal factors can also have an impact on vasodilation, including:
- Temperature
- Elevation
- Age
- Weight
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