Coronary circulation · Physiology

Why does sympathetic stimulation increase coronary blood flow despite vasoconstrictor effects?

  1. Direct beta-2 receptor mediated vasodilation
  2. Increased heart rate acting alone
  3. Metabolic dilation overrides constriction
  4. Reduced myocardial oxygen extraction
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Correct answer: Metabolic dilation overrides constriction

Increased cardiac work raises metabolic demand. Local vasodilators override sympathetic vasoconstriction.

Difficulty: Medium Question 18 of 20

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