Blood Flow

Notes

Blood Flow, Pressure, and Resistance 🩸 This section dives into the fundamental concepts of circulation physiology, focusing on blood flow, blood pressure, and resistance. Understanding these terms is crucial for comprehending how blood moves throughout the body. Key Definitions Blood Flow Blood flow refers to the volume of blood passing through a vessel, organ, or body part within a minute. When considering the entire circulatory system, total blood flow is equivalent to cardiac output – the amount of blood pumped by the heart per minute. Blood Pressure Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood against the walls of blood vessels. It is a critical measurement reflecting the pressure that pushes blood through the circulatory system. ● ● ● Units: Blood pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Measurement: Often reported as a fraction: ○ Systolic Pressure: The higher number, representing the pressure during ventricular contraction (systole). ○ Diastolic Pressure: The lower number, representing the pressure during ventricular relaxation (diastole). Average: A typical healthy blood pressure is approximately 120/80mmHg. Resistance (Total Peripheral Resistance -...