Question
From the Feb. 1st issue of "Circulation". Based on an article by Dr. Virend Somers of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.
The reflex-feedback system of the human body is a persons answer to gravity. When people stand up gravity tries to pull the blood in their systems downward. To keep circulation in equilibrium the veins and arteries constrict momentarily, thereby maintaining blood pressure. Alcohol dilates blood vessels and impairs this reflex, which may explain why some people faint upon standing and downing only a few drinks.
Researchers tested blood pressure in fourteen participants, average age 26. The participants reclined in a metal cylinder equipped with a vaccuum system that reduced air pressure on their legs suddenly, to simulate the stress of standing. Tests demonstrated after two to three beers the blood pressure dropped significantly and that their vessels-constriction reflex was turned off. Interestingly some participants were unaffected, suggesting a genetic component.
This would also suggest that vaso-vagal effects, such as temporary drop in blood pressure while coughing, may be made more severe by consumption of small quantities of alcohol.
Answer
Well, I guess that explains....
ONE TEQUILA, TWO TEQUILA, THREE TEQUILA, FLOOR!
------------------
Keeping you safe, healthy, and on the road.
Nurse Red
Visit us at www.Truck.net/abmsVisit us at