Circulatory System

The Circulatory System The circulatory system in humans is made up of: 1. The heart 2. Blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries) 3. Blood The main function of the circulatory system is to transport materials through the body. It also regulates body temperature and transports disease-fighting white blood cells to areas of the body to fight viruses or bacteria

Red Blood Cells carry oxygen in the blood as well as nutrients and other materials to and from tissues. Red blood cells contain protein called haemoglobin White Blood Cells defend the body against bacteria, disease causing organisms, and other invaders. Platelets play an important role in the formation of blood clots. Plasma is the liquid portion of the blood and helps carry the blood cells along. Blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

Overview of the Circulatory System Blue = veins Red = arteries Veins bring blood towards the heart Arteries take blood away from the heart

Blood Vessels Arteries are thick walled tubes that usually transport oxygenated blood to the body tissues from the heart. (AWAY FROM the heart) Capillaries are the site of exchange between the blood and body cells. They exchange oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, wastes, and other materials. (small thin walled blood vessels that allow substances to pass in and out of the circulatory system) Veins are thinner walled tubes that usually transport deoxygenated blood from the body tissues to the heart. (TOWARDS the heart)

The Human Heart The heart contains four chambers that pump blood to the lungs and to all body parts.

The heart acts as a double pump with the right side receiving deoxygenated blood from the different parts of the body. The blood is then pumped to the lungs where oxygen diffuses into the blood and it becomes oxygenated. The oxygenated blood then returns to the left side of the heart where it is pumped to all body parts. Your heart beats approximately 60 to 80 times per minute when you are at rest. Your heart beats approximately 60 to 80 times per minute when you are at rest.

Diseases and Disorders Symptoms include: tiredness, dizziness, pain or burning sensation in chest or arms. Diagnosed with: angiogram (special dyes injected into blood vessels makes them visible to X-rays) Coronary Artery Disease - when coronary arteries become partially blocked with plaque (a build up of fat, cholesterol, and calcium)

Angiogram showing coronary artery disease

Heart Attack - coronary arteries become completely blocked (from plaque or a blood clot) Symptoms include: chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, anxiety, upper body pain, stomach pain, sweating, dizziness, unusual fatigue Diagnosed with: blood test or electrocardiogram (ECG)

Lifestyle and Heart Disease To reduce the risk of heart disease: - Don’t smoke - Maintain a healthy diet - Exercise, be physically active - Reduce stress