How will hypoxia affect the pulmonary capillary bed and pulmonary vascular resistance?
A) The pulmonary vascular bed constricts and pulmonary vascular resistance decreases
B) The pulmonary vascular bed dilates and pulmonary vascular resistance falls
C) The pulmonary vascular bed constricts but the pulmonary vascular resistance does not change
D) The pulmonary capillary bed constricts and pulmonary vascular resistance increases

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypoxia causes the pulmonary capillary bed to constrict, which in turn increases the pulmonary vascular resistance. This is a unique response of the pulmonary circulation to low oxygen levels, contrasting with systemic vessels that typically dilate in response to hypoxia to increase blood flow and oxygen delivery.

How Will Hypoxia Affect the Pulmonary Capillary Bed and Pulmonary