Reflex Venomotor Activity in Normal Persons and in Patients with Postural Hypotension

Reflex venomotor activity has been observed and measured in normal subjects by means of the pressures developed within isolated segments of superficial veins. Strong contractions are caused by the Valsalva maneuver, tilting, cold, exercise, and hyperventilation. After the Valsalva and after tilting there is a brief elevation of central venous pressure. Pulmonary vascular pressures are also increased after the Valsalva. This is taken to indicate a widespread venoconstriction with central shifting of blood. Persons with postural hypotension show little or no segment or central venous pressure response to these stimuli, indicating impaired reflex venomotor activity.