Cardiovascular effects of the sympathetic division include all of the following except
A) constriction of most blood vessels.
B) dilation of the vessels serving the skeletal muscles.
C) increase in heart rate and force.
D) dilation of the blood vessels serving the skin and digestive viscera.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system mostly causes vasoconstriction of blood vessels, including those serving the skin and digestive viscera. However, it does cause vasodilation of the vessels serving skeletal muscles to help support physical activity. It also increases heart rate and force to support increased oxygen demand during activity. Therefore, the cardiovascular effects of the sympathetic division do not include dilation of the vessels serving the skin and digestive viscera, making option D the correct answer.

Cardiovascular Effects of the Sympathetic Division Include All of the Following