What is the expected change in blood pressure during a vasovagal response?

During a vasovagal response, the body experiences a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to hypotension. This reflex occurs due to an exaggerated response of the vagus nerve, which is part of the autonomic nervous system. When triggered, the vagus nerve stimulates a decrease in heart rate (bradycardia) and dilates blood vessels, causing a reduction in systemic vascular resistance. The resulting effect is a significant decrease in blood pressure, which can lead to fainting or syncope in some individuals.

In this context, hypotension is the most relevant outcome because it highlights the body's physiological response to a stimulus that triggers the vasovagal reflex. Understanding this response is crucial in cardiac medicine, particularly in recognizing and managing episodes that might cause sudden drops in blood pressure in patients.