2. Circulatory/Cardiovascular
System
The main function of the circulatory
system is to provide nutrients and oxygen
to the various parts of the body, via the
blood, which is circulated through the
veins and arteries, like a giant
transportation system.
Arteries carry the oxygenated blood from
the heart to the cells and tissues, whereas
veins return the oxygen-depleted blood
from the cells to the heart.
3. The Two forms of Circulation
In systemic circulation, arteries collect the
oxygen-rich blood from the heart and is
transported to the body tissues. In the
process, oxygen from the blood is diffused
into the body cells; whereas carbon
dioxide from the cells is diffused in the
blood. This exchange of gases takes place
with the help of capillaries that surround
the body cells
4. The pulmonary circulation is a loop from
the heart to the lungs. It is that portion,
where deoxygenated blood from the heart
is carried to the lungs and in turn, returns
oxygenated blood to the heart.
5. The circulatory system works with the
respiratory system and digestive system to
supply oxygen and nutrients to the body.
Blood carries the messenger chemicals -
hormones, secreted by the organs of the
endocrine system. Thus, the circulatory
system is also responsible for circulating
hormones for proper communication
between the body organs.
6. Circulatory/Cardiovascular System
Capillaries (smallest of blood vessels) -
Controls flow of oxygen to cells and
carbon dioxide from cells using the
following feedback loop:
If oxygen too low, gases flow from areas of
high concentration (capillaries)to low
concentration (cells) to maintain levels
If too high, the opposite happens, gases flow
from areas of high concentration (cells) to low
concentration (capillaries).
7. Diseases/affliction of the
cardiovascular/circulatory system
Heart attack
High blood pressure
Hemophilia
Stroke
Sepsis (infection)
Bruises/contusions (hickey)
