Blood Vessels and Their Functions

These flashcards cover the anatomy and functions of blood vessels, including terms related to blood flow, types of blood vessels, and physiological processes involved in circulation.

Mucus vs. Mucous

Mucus is a noun referring to the secretion, while mucous is an adjective that describes the membrane producing it.

Artery

A blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.

Vein

A blood vessel that carries blood towards the heart.

Capillary

The smallest blood vessels where the exchange of nutrients and waste occurs.

Tunica intima

The innermost layer of a blood vessel in direct contact with blood.

Tunica media

The middle layer of a blood vessel, composed mainly of smooth muscle that controls blood flow.

Tunica externa

The outermost layer of a blood vessel that provides structural support.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels which increases blood flow.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels which decreases blood flow.

Atherosclerosis

A condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.

Angioplasty

A medical procedure to restore blood flow through the artery by widening it.

Sinusoids

A type of capillary with larger openings allowing for the passage of larger substances like blood cells.

Precapillary sphincter

A circular muscle that can open or close blood entry into capillary beds.

Portal system

A system where blood passes through two capillary beds before returning to the heart.

Hemodynamics

The study of blood flow and the forces involved in circulation.

Vasa vasorum

Small blood vessels that provide blood supply to the outer layer of larger blood vessels.

Interstitial fluid

Fluid that surrounds tissue cells and is involved in exchange with capillaries.

Heart Rate

The number of times the heart beats per minute, which is influenced by the sympathetic nervous system.