Blood Pressure | Medical Science Optional Notes for UPSC PDF Download

Blood Pressure - Definitions

Arterial blood pressure is the lateral force exerted by the column of blood on the walls of arteries as it flows through them. This pressure is commonly referred to as blood pressure. There are four distinct terms used to express arterial blood pressure:

• Systolic blood pressure: This is the maximum pressure exerted during systole.
• Diastolic blood pressure: This represents the minimum pressure exerted during diastole.
• Pulse pressure: It denotes the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure.
• Mean arterial blood pressure: This is the average pressure within the arteries, calculated as the diastolic pressure plus one-third of the pulse pressure.

Factors Effecting Blood Pressure

The formula for blood pressure can be expressed as the product of cardiac output and total peripheral resistance: Blood Pressure = Cardiac Output × Total Peripheral Resistance.

Baroreflex

The baroreceptor reflex plays a significant role in the cardiovascular response to hemorrhage, influencing mean arterial pressure (Pa) and total peripheral resistance (TPR).

RAAS

Role of the renin-anglotensln-aldosterone system in the cardiovascular response to hemorrhage. Pa = mean arterial pressure; TPR = total peripheral resistance.

Antihypertensives - Pharmacology - Repeats

1. Categorize antihypertensive medications, elucidating the mechanism of action and side effects associated with Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors). Highlight the advantages of Angiotensin Receptor antagonists. (2011)

2. Explain the mechanism of action and potential adverse effects of drugs employed for treating hypertension during pregnancy (2009).

3. Detail the mechanism of action and adverse effects of Vasodilators utilized in cases of Hypertensive Urgency/Emergency (2009).

4. Explore the mechanism of action for the following vasodilator drugs: (i) Nifedipine (ii) Glyceryl trinitrate (2014).

5. Examine the pharmacology of calcium channel blockers. Enumerate the reasons for combining beta blockers with amlodipine (2015).

6. Identify various drug classes used in hypertension treatment. Delve into the mechanism of action, clinical applications, and adverse effects of Sodium nitroprusside (2018).