Question

If the body is normally able to regulate MAP in the body, then why does consistent high blood pressure occur?

Select one:

a. Over time, the baroreceptors that monitor pressure become desensitized from continuous high pressure, which reduces their regulating activity.

b. Over time, the baroreceptors that monitor pressure become oversensitized from continuous high pressure, which increases their regulating activity.

c. Over time, the baroreceptors deactivate completely after exposure to continuous high pressure, which means the body must rely on slower, long-term control mechanisms.

Answer 1

a. Over time, the baroreceptors that monitor pressure become desensitized from continuous high pressure, which reduces their regulating activity.

Explanation:

- Blood pressure is constantly monitored by baroreceptors.

- Baroreceptors are special receptors that detect changes in your blood pressure.

- If the blood pressure within the aorta or carotid sinus increases, the walls of the arteries stretch and stimulate increased activity within the baroreceptors. This stimulate vagal system to send inhibitory signals to vessels to lower the MAP.

- But due to consistent high MAP, baroreceptors get desensitized due to their continuous stretching. Hence they are unable to control long term hypertension.