What is a primary effect of hyperventilation on intracranial pressure?

Hyperventilation leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, a state known as hypocapnia. This drop in carbon dioxide results in cerebral vasoconstriction, which is the narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain. As the blood vessels constrict, there is a reduction in cerebral blood volume that consequently lowers intracranial pressure.

This physiological response is important in medical situations where managing intracranial pressure is critical. By inducing cerebral vasoconstriction, hyperventilation helps alleviate potential complications related to increased intracranial pressure, such as brain herniation or compromised blood flow to brain tissue.

In contrast, options related to vasodilation or increased blood flow would lead to an increase in intracranial pressure, while stating there is no effect fails to recognize the significant influence that hyperventilation has on intracranial dynamics.