PRESSOR Meaning and
Definition
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A pressor, in the medical field, refers to any substance or agent that increases blood pressure. The term "pressor" is derived from the Latin word "pressus" which means "to press". Pressors can include a variety of medications or substances that act on the cardiovascular system in different ways, ultimately resulting in an elevation of blood pressure.
Pressors work by constricting the blood vessels, thus reducing their diameter and increasing the resistance to blood flow. This vasoconstrictive effect causes an elevation in arterial blood pressure, contributing to enhanced perfusion to vital organs. Pressors can also stimulate the heart to beat with more force, which aids in raising blood pressure.
These substances are commonly used in the treatment of patients with low blood pressure caused by various conditions such as shock, sepsis, or cardiac arrest. They are administered intravenously in hospitals or other medical settings under close monitoring.
It is important to note that pressors are potent medications that must be used with caution due to their potential side effects, such as increased heart rate, arrhythmias, or tissue damage if not adequately monitored. The administration of pressors requires expertise from healthcare professionals who carefully evaluate the patient's condition and make necessary adjustments to dosage or drug selection based on the individual's response.
In summary, a pressor is a substance or medication that increases blood pressure by constricting blood vessels and increasing the force of cardiac contractions. Its main purpose is to restore or maintain adequate blood pressure in individuals experiencing low blood pressure related to critical illnesses or conditions.
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Exciting to vasomotor activity, producing increased blood-pressure, noting afferent nerve-fibers which, when stimulated, excite the vasoconstrictor center.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PRESSOR
Etymology of PRESSOR
The word "pressor" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "premere", which means "to press or squeeze". The suffix "-or" in Latin often denotes an agent or instrument. Therefore, "pressor" can be interpreted as something that presses or causes pressure. In the medical context, "pressor" is commonly used to refer to medications or substances that increase blood pressure.
Similar spelling words for PRESSOR
- preserves,
- Prosser,
- pressure,
- prescript,
- preserve,
- proscribe,
- prescribe,
- progress,
- preserved,
- press run,
- pressurize,
- pressurise,
- preserver,
- preusser.
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