Cardio-Vascular Malfunctions

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  • Created by: abbiedye
  • Created on: 07-04-19 19:16

Cardio-Vascular Malfunctions

Components of Blood

  • white blood cells - fight infection (antibodies)
  • red blood cells - carry oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from cells
  • platelets - clot blood (prevent blood loss - scab over the wound)
  • plasma - fluid which carries nutrients (dissolvable substances)
  • arteries carry blood away from the heart and veins bring blood back
  • arteries carry high-pressure blood and have a pulse
  • arteries are more flexible

Hypertension

  • high blood pressure
  • When the ventricles contract, the left side has to force the blood out into the arteries with enough pressure to reach the extremities (systolic pressure). The arteries have to be soft and flexible enough to accommodate this. As the heart relaxes between beats (diastolic pressure) the arteries have to tolerate less tension.
  • If they harden, the pressure will be greater. This happens as they age but high salt diet, smoking, and stress can cause this. Genetics also play a part
  • High blood pressure is when the arteries have to tolerate high pressure even when the heart is relaxing between beats
  • High pressure can cause a heart attack or stroke, and can damage other organs such as kidneys. 120/80mmHg (millimetres of mercury) is 'normal'
  • Low blood pressure - If there isn't enough pressure, the extremities (brain) don't get enough blood (especially when you stand up) and the person can experience dizziness or faint (70/40mmHg)

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