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Vascular Tone

Meaning

Vascular tone refers to the degree of constriction or tension within the walls of blood vessels, primarily the arteries and arterioles, which determines the internal diameter of the lumen. This continuous, partial state of contraction is essential for maintaining systemic blood pressure and for precisely regulating local blood flow to specific organs and tissues based on metabolic need. Vascular tone is not static; it is a dynamically regulated parameter that reflects the balance between vasoconstricting and vasodilating influences. Optimal hormonal balance, particularly of thyroid hormones and sex steroids, is necessary for maintaining healthy vascular tone.