Circulation and Cardiovascular Systems

A set of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key terms and definitions related to the circulatory and cardiovascular systems.

Circulatory System

The system responsible for transporting blood, nutrients, gases, and waste products throughout the body.

Cardiovascular System Functions

Includes transportation of nutrients, temperature regulation, blood clotting, and immune function.

Closed Circulatory System

A type of circulatory system in which blood is contained within vessels.

Arteries

Blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body, except for the pulmonary artery.

Veins

Blood vessels that carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart, except for the pulmonary vein.

Capillaries

Microscopic blood vessels where gas and nutrient exchange occurs between blood and tissues.

Double Loop Circulation

A system where blood travels through two circuits: systemic and pulmonary circuits.

SA Node

The sinoatrial node, known as the heart's natural pacemaker, initiates the heartbeat.

AV Node

The atrioventricular node, which conducts impulses from the atria to the ventricles.

Systole

The phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart muscles contract and pump blood.

Diastole

The phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart muscles relax and the chambers fill with blood.

Hypertension

A condition characterized by persistently high blood pressure.

Atherosclerosis

The buildup of fatty materials between the inner linings of arteries.

Stroke

A medical condition where blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced.

Myocardial Infarction

Commonly known as a heart attack, it occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked.

Lymphatic System

Network of vessels and organs that help maintain fluid balance and support the immune system.

Innate Immune Defenses

The non-specific defense mechanisms that the body is born with to protect against pathogens.

Adaptive Immunity

The part of the immune system that adapts to specific pathogens with memory.

Lymphocytes

White blood cells that are key components of the adaptive immune system.