The circulatory system includes the heart, lungs, veins, arteries, and capillaries, which work together to pump oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. A healthy circulatory system is essential for survival, and maintaining it involves a healthy lifestyle and avoiding harmful substances. Circulatory problems can be managed with medical guidance.
The circulatory system is made up of a network of vessels and organs, including the heart, lungs, veins, arteries and capillaries. Each part of the system works together to help blood pump through the body and reach other vital tissues and organs. In a healthy circulatory system, all parts work together in a smooth, never-ending loop.
A healthy circulatory system is essential for survival, as every part of the body requires oxygen-rich blood to thrive. When blood cannot reach a certain organ or appendage, the tissue in that region stops functioning and dies. Outside of the body, such as the hands or feet, dead tissue may need to be removed by amputation. When it occurs in a vital organ, the patient will either need an organ transplant or have to stay on certain machines capable of performing that organ’s duties.
The heart is the main driving force of the circulatory system. All blood in the body passes through the heart’s four chambers, and the pumping action of the organ allows fluid to reach the rest of the body. When all parts are working properly, blood flows to the right side of the heart and travels through the pulmonary arteries to the lungs where it receives more oxygen. It then reenters the heart in the left ventricle so it can be pumped out through the arteries.
While the lungs are the stars of the respiratory system, they also play an important role in a healthy circulatory system. As blood from the heart travels throughout the body, it leaves most of its oxygen with the tissues and organs through which it passes. Before it can be sent back through the heart, it has to pass through the lungs and pick up more oxygen. If the lungs are not healthy, the oxygen supply in the blood decreases which can lead to multiple problems throughout the body.
Arteries, veins and capillaries form a massive network that runs throughout the body. Arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the tissues, and veins carry it back to the heart to be recycled. The exchange between the two takes place in the capillaries. An easy way to remember the difference between veins and arteries is to note that the word “vein” contains the word “in” and they go to the heart. In a healthy circulatory system, both veins and arteries are fully open, allowing blood to flow freely through the entire network.
Maintaining a healthy circulatory system can take work. It typically involves maintaining a healthy diet with a minimal amount of fat, exercising regularly to keep your heart in shape, and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, or other substances that can damage the structures in your system. Those suffering from circulatory problems can often live full lives by carefully following their doctor’s recommendations.
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