Circulatory System
Function
Delivers oxygen to the body
Function and Structure
The arteries carry blood away from the heart.
The veins carry blood back to the heart.
Capillaries hold the blood.
Route of Blood
Blood enters into the right atrium. From there, it goes through the tricuspid valve to the right ventricle. From the right ventricle it goes to the pulmonary trunk, then into the right and left pulmonary arteries into the lungs. After the lungs, it goes into the left atrium, then the left ventricle, then it goes into the aorta before continuing to the rest of the body.
Blood Composition
Blood is made of two main ingredients: plasma and formed elements. Formed elements are platelets, red blood cells (a.k.a. Erythrocytes), and white blood cells (a.k.a. Leukocytes).
Angina
Angina is a disorder in which blood flow is restricted. Common symptoms include chest pain, pressure in the chest, and a tightness in the chest. There are many medications to treat angina. About one in every 42 people will experience angina.
Peripheral Vascular Disease
Peripheral Vascular disease is a disease in which lower extremities narrow/stiffen and do not allow as much blood flow. Common symptoms include pain with movement, tingling/burning/numbness feeling in feet, fatigue, achiness, and nightly pain/cramps. It's treated with surgery or medication. The prevalence is still unknown.