The human circulatory system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. It transports oxygen, nutrients, and waste products throughout the body. The heart pumps blood through two main pathways: systemic circulation (delivering oxygenated blood to the body) and pulmonary circulation (carrying deoxygenated blood to the lungs for oxygenation). Blood vessels include arteries, veins, and capillaries, while blood contains plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The system helps regulate body functions, protects against infections, and maintains fluid balance.
Oxygenated blood🩸
Oxygenated blood is blood that has been enriched with oxygen in the lungs and is carrying it to the body's tissues and organs. It is bright red in color due to the high oxygen content, as oxygen binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells. Oxygenated blood is pumped from the left side of the heart through the arteries to various parts of the body.
Deoxygenated blood 🩸
Deoxygenated blood is blood that has a low oxygen content and is carrying carbon dioxide and other waste products from the body's tissues back to the heart and lungs. It is darker in color compared to oxygenated blood. Deoxygenated blood is pumped from the right side of the heart to the lungs, where it releases carbon dioxide and picks up oxygen to become oxygenated.
The circulatory system works with other systems by transporting oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products to maintain homeostasis.
Common disorders include hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart failure, stroke, and varicose veins.
Lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, smoking, and stress management significantly impact circulatory health.
The lymphatic system aids circulation by draining excess fluid, transporting fats, and supporting immune function.
During physical activity, the circulatory system increases heart rate, dilates blood vessels, and enhances blood flow to muscles.