This increases blood flow to areas lacking nutrients or oxygen.
When vasodilation occurs, blood vessels widen to increase blood flow.
When vasoconstriction occurs, the vessels narrow, decreasing blood flow and increasing blood pressure.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Without the resistance of a narrower blood vessel, vasodilation helps deliver oxygen-rich blood to the tissues.
The circulatory system delivers blood throughout the body.
To achieve this, blood vessels dilate (widen) and constrict (narrow).
You may need medications that increase your natural vasodilation if you have high blood pressure.
Vasodilator medications relax the smooth muscles to bring up the vessels and let more blood flow through.
These medications cause vasoconstriction and help to increase resistance in your blood vessels and raise your blood pressure.
Some natural substances andsupplementsalso have a vasodilatory effect.
These substances have a similar effect to vasodilator medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before using them.
Too much vasodilation could result in dangerously low blood pressure.
Always talk to a healthcare provider before taking any new supplements.
It can happen naturally, through certain medications, or by various supplements or exercise.
If you have high blood pressure, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications that increase vasodilation.
Do not attempt to treat your high or low blood pressure at home without consulting your primary healthcare provider.
Always check before starting any new supplements.
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[Updated 2023 Nov 21].
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Ramanlal R, Gupta V.Physiology, vasodilation.
[Updated 2023 Jan 23].
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