Circulatory System

These flashcards cover the key concepts of the circulatory system, including blood vessel functions, structures, and important conditions.

Arteries

Vessels that carry blood away from the heart, typically oxygen-rich and under high pressure.

Veins

Vessels that carry blood towards the heart, generally oxygen-poor and under low pressure.

Subclavian arteries

Major arteries found under the collarbone, supplying blood to the arm, neck, and brain.

Jugular veins

Veins in the neck responsible for returning blood from the brain back to the heart.

Aorta

The body’s largest artery, serving as the main highway for oxygen-rich blood from the heart.

Brachiocephalic artery

The first branch of the aortic arch, supplying blood to the right carotid and right subclavian arteries.

Carotid arteries

Arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the brain, face, and neck.

Mesenteric arteries

Arteries that provide oxygenated blood to the intestines, part of the digestive system.

Hepatic portal vein

Vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the digestive organs to the liver for filtration.

Renal arteries and veins

Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood to the kidneys; veins bring oxygen-poor blood back from the kidneys.

Iliac arteries and veins

Arteries that send blood to the legs and pelvis; veins that return blood from the lower body.

Coronary arteries

Arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.

Capillaries

Smallest blood vessels where exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste occurs.

Pulmonary veins

Veins that carry oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the heart.

Pulmonary arteries

Arteries that carry oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs.

Blood pressure

The pressure of circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels, highest in the aorta.

Capillary-tissue fluid exchange

The process through which nutrients and gases are exchanged between blood in capillaries and tissues.

Antigens

Proteins on the surface of red blood cells that trigger immune responses.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system that bind to antigens.

Fetal circulation

Circulatory system of a fetus, which bypasses the lungs and liver via specific shunts.

Atherosclerosis

A condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup.

Hypertension

High blood pressure, which can lead to health complications and diseases.