Question

The viscosity of blood is important in maintaining
(a) Acid-Base balance
(b) Diastolic blood pressure
(c) Systolic blood pressure
(d) Osmotic blood pressure

Answer 1

Hint: If blood viscosity increases, then the total peripheral resistance (TPR) will necessarily increase, thereby reducing blood flow. Conversely, when viscosity decreases, blood flow and perfusion will increase. The viscosity of blood is important in maintaining maximum pressure during one heartbeat.

Complete answer:
The Viscosity of blood is important in maintaining systolic blood pressure. Viscosity of blood is the measure of thickness and stickiness of blood. There is a relationship between blood pressure and blood viscosity. When blood viscosity increases, blood flow is reduced. Similarly, when blood viscosity decreases, blood flow is increased. Increase in systolic blood pressure with increase in blood viscosity is required to maintain the cardiac output. Increased blood viscosity requires a higher systolic blood pressure to ensure the same circulating volume of blood. Hence, blood viscosity is important in maintaining systolic blood pressure. Viscosity, a basal parameter in rheology, is a major determinant of the shear stress imparted by blood flow, and plays an important role in maintaining vascular homeostasis. Blood viscosity is mainly determined by hematocrit levels, plasma viscosity, and the deformability and aggregation of red blood cells (RBCs).

Additional Information: -Blood pressure (BP) is the pressure of circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels. It plays an important role in the transport of nutrients from stomach, intestine and liver to tissues.
-They transport respiratory gases between lungs and tissues. They transport metabolic wastes and toxins from tissues to kidneys and sweat glands.
-Transport hormones from their sources to target sites and also enzymes from exocrine glands to cells.
So, the correct answer is 'Systolic blood pressure'.

Note: -Blood helps in regulation of body temperature by absorbing, releasing or distributing heat.
-It helps to maintain proper and constant body pH through buffering action. Maintain water balance in the cells by transporting excess water to kidneys and sweat glands.
-Regulation of electrolyte balance or fluid balance by removing salts from tissues to kidneys.