Arterioles are considered as the primary resistance vessels as they distribute blood flow into capillary beds. Arterioles provide approximately 80% of the total resistance to blood flow through the body.

How do arterioles control blood flow?

The constriction of arterioles increases resistance, which causes a decrease in blood flow to downstream capillaries and a larger decrease in blood pressure. Dilation of arterioles causes a decrease in resistance, increasing blood flow to downstream capillaries, and a smaller decrease in blood pressure.

What do arterioles cause?

Types of blood vessels, including an arteriole and artery, as well as capillaries. An arteriole is a small-diameter blood vessel in the microcirculation that extends and branches out from an artery and leads to capillaries.