Mr. Ramos The Cardiovascular System
Before We Get Started… Levels of Organization
Introduction to the Cardiovascular System The cardiovascular system is a transport system that carries nutrients and oxygen to cells of the body and carries waste products away from cells. The cardiovascular system is made up of The heart Blood vessels: arteries, veins, & capillaries
Arteries, Veins, and Capillaries Arteries are large blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart. Veins are large blood vessels that carry blood to the heart. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that connect arteries and veins. Gases & nutrients can pass through capillaries.
The Heart The heart is a muscle that pumps blood. In humans, the heart is made up of 4 chambers: Right atrium Right ventricle Left atrium Left ventricle The right side of the heart receives de-oxygenated blood The left side of the heart receives oxygenated blood.
The Heart
Blood Blood is a liquid made up of plasma, blood cells, and platelets. Blood is considered connective tissue. Blood carries oxygen, water, and nutrients to different parts in the body. Plasma is mostly water & contains nutrients, minerals, salts, & gases. Blood cells include the red blood cells and white blood cells. Platelets are cell fragments that form clots to prevent blood loss.
Red Blood Cells Red blood cells carry oxygen to the tissues Remove carbon dioxide from the tissues Don’t have a nucleus Are called erythrocytes
White Blood Cells White blood cells Fight diseases Remember diseases Are classified as neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes (or macrophages). Are called leukocytes
Factors Affecting Blood Flow: Heart Rate Heart rate is the how fast or slow the heart beats in beats per minute (BPM). Normal human rate: 60 – 100 BPM. Faster heart beat = more blood flow Slower heart beat = less blood flow Heart beats can be listened to & measured with a stethoscope. The pulse rate is used to find heart rate. Pulse is taken in arteries only
Factors Affecting Blood Flow: Heart Rate
Factors Affecting Blood Flow: Blood Pressure Blood pressure is the force of blood felt on arteries. More blood = More pressure Less blood = Less pressure The arteries can also stretch or become narrow. This affects blood flow & pressure. Blood pressure (BP) is measured with a sphygmomanometer. Systolic BP is the force felt when an artery is squeezed. Diastolic BP is the force felt when an artery is relaxed.
Factors Affecting Blood Flow: Clots Cholesterol is a waxy substance & component of plaque. Plaque can build up in arteries and cause blood clots. Plaque causes arteries to become narrower & the heart rate to increase. Diet & exercise can prevent plaque formation.
Factors Affecting Blood Flow: Clots “Heart Attack”: Myocardial Infarction “Brain Attack”: Stroke
Bozeman Cardiovascular System Video