The Cardiovascular System

Function of Blood Circulation

To deliver oxygen and nutrients and remove carbon dioxide and waste products.

Closed Circulatory System

A system in which blood is circulated through a network of blood vessels.

Location of the Heart

The heart is located in the thorax between the lungs.

Size of the Heart

About the size of a fist.

Heart Coverings

The heart is covered by the pericardium, which has two layers: parietal and visceral (epicardium).

Pericarditis

Inflammation of the pericardium usually caused by fluid buildup or bleeding.

Cardiac Tamponade

Compression of the heart due to fluid or blood buildup in the pericardial cavity.

Chambers of the Heart

The heart has four chambers: left and right atria, and left and right ventricles.

Aortic Semilunar Valve

A heart valve located between the left ventricle and the aorta.

Heart Regulation of Heart Rate

The heart rate can be influenced by various factors including exercise, hormones, and the autonomic nervous system.

Blood Pressure Definitions

Diastolic pressure is the pressure when ventricles relax; systolic pressure is the pressure at peak ventricular contraction.

Hypertension

Abnormally high blood pressure, typically above 140 mm HG.

Myocardial Infarction

A heart attack resulting from a blockage in one of the coronary arteries.

Heart Murmur

A condition where blood flows in the opposite direction of the valve due to incompetent valves.

Tachycardia

A condition where heart rate is abnormally high.

Bradycardia

A condition where heart rate is abnormally low.