Vasoconstriction · What Is It, Causes, Signs, Symptoms, and More

Other than cold, several other factors can cause vasoconstriction. When the body is under stress, it produces stress hormones (e.g., norepinephrine) that lead to narrowing of blood vessels. Cigarette smoking can also tighten blood vessels, as cigarettes contain vasoconstrictive substances; for example, nicotine binds to receptors on the surface of muscles in vessel walls and stimulates their contraction.  

Additionally, vasoconstriction can result from using certain medications. Nasal decongestants - such as pseudoephedrine - constrict nasal vessels to relieve nasal mucosa congestion. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), used to treat inflammatory conditions including arthritis and the common cold, also have a vasoconstrictor effect.  

Moreover, vasoconstriction can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as Raynaud phenomenon. Raynaud phenomenon is characterized by vasoconstriction of arterioles, or small arteries, near the skin. This condition most often affects the fingers and toes, causing the affected digits to change color to white, blue, and red. The most common triggers for Raynaud phenomenon are emotional stress and exposure to cold temperatures. Raynaud phenomenon can be primary (i.e., occur on its own) or secondary to other diseases, including connective tissue disorders (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus and scleroderma) and vasculitis such as Buerger disease and Takayasu arteritis.

Symptoms of vasoconstriction include lightheadedness, headaches, and generalized weakness. Additionally, reduced blood flow to the skin from vasoconstriction can lead to pallor (i.e., a white appearance), which may progress to cyanosis (i.e., a bluish appearance).  

Excessive or chronic vasoconstriction can also lead to complications. Hypertension (high blood pressure) of the systemic and pulmonary circulation occurs as the blood has to exert higher force to pass through constricted blood vessels. Vasoconstriction also increases the risk of acute coronary events in individuals with heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease. When vasoconstriction affects one’s fingers and toes, like in Raynaud phenomenon, complications may also include ulcers or even gangrene (i.e., tissue necrosis).