Carotid sinus
Carotid Sinus
The Carotid Sinus (pronounced: kuh-ROT-id SY-nus) is a dilated area at the base of the internal carotid artery that is responsible for regulating heart rate and blood pressure.
Etymology
The term "Carotid" is derived from the Greek word "karōtides" meaning "to put to sleep," as pressure on the carotid arteries was once thought to cause unconsciousness. "Sinus" is a Latin term for "pocket" or "curve," referring to the shape of this area of the artery.
Function
The Carotid Sinus functions as a baroreceptor, a type of sensor that detects changes in blood pressure. It sends signals to the brain to either increase or decrease heart rate and blood pressure as necessary. This helps to maintain a stable blood flow to the brain.
Related Terms
- Carotid Body: A small cluster of chemoreceptors and supporting cells located near the fork (bifurcation) of the carotid artery.
- Baroreceptor: A sensor located in the blood vessels that detects changes in blood pressure.
- Carotid Artery: The major blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain, neck, and face.
- Hypertension: A condition characterized by consistently high blood pressure.
- Hypotension: A condition characterized by consistently low blood pressure.
See Also
- Carotid Sinus Syndrome: A condition where pressure on the carotid sinus leads to a drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to fainting or syncope.
- Carotid Sinus Massage: A procedure used by medical professionals to slow a fast heart rate or to diagnose carotid sinus hypersensitivity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Carotid sinus
- Wikipedia's article - Carotid sinus
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