Peripheral resistance is determined by three factors: Autonomic activity: sympathetic activity constricts peripheral arteries. Pharmacologic agents: vasoconstrictor drugs increase resistance while vasodilator drugs decrease it. Blood viscosity: increased viscosity increases resistance. What happens when total peripheral resistance increases? Vascular resistance is used to maintain organ perfusion. In certain disease states,Read More →

It’s important to see your doctor if you notice any signs of neuropathy. Controlling your blood sugar can prevent nerve damage or slow its course. One study noted that unexplained peripheral neuropathy may be a sign of borderline or undiagnosed diabetes. What happens if peripheral neuropathy gets worse? If theRead More →

Inadequate perfusion to the extremities refers to decreased arterial blood flow to the extremities. This can be due to a sudden embolic event obstructing arterial flow, or a chronic obstructive process leading to decreased arterial flow to the extremities. How do you assess peripheral perfusion? There ‏are different methods toRead More →