blood vessels and circulation part 2

lesson 6 bio 202 rio salado

Pulmonary circuit pathway

Right ventricle → pulmonary arteries → lungs → pulmonary veins → left atrium

Function of pulmonary circuit

Carries deoxygenated blood to lungs for gas exchange and returns oxygenated blood to heart

Importance of pulmonary circulation

Oxygenates blood and removes carbon dioxide

Pulmonary arteries

Carry deoxygenated blood from heart to lungs

Pulmonary veins

Carry oxygenated blood from lungs to heart

Hepatic portal system

Specialized circulation that directs blood from digestive organs to the liver

Pathway of hepatic portal system

Capillaries of digestive organs → hepatic portal vein → liver → hepatic vein → inferior vena cava

Function of hepatic portal system

Allows liver to process nutrients, detoxify substances, and regulate blood composition before it enters general circulation

Why hepatic portal system is unique

Blood passes through two capillary beds before returning to the heart

Age-related changes in blood vessels

Loss of elasticity, vessel stiffening, and narrowing of lumen

Effect of decreased elasticity

Increased blood pressure and reduced ability to regulate flow

Atherosclerosis

Buildup of plaque in vessel walls leading to reduced blood flow

Effect of aging on veins

Valves weaken, increasing risk of blood pooling and varicose veins

Effect of aging on circulation

Slower blood flow and increased risk of cardiovascular disease