Your Vascular System
An introduction to the human vascular system.
ABOUT YOUR VASCULAR SYSTEM
ARTERIES, VEINS & CAPILLARIES
Arteries — These are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to the rest of the body. Arteries are thicker than veins or capillaries and susceptible to dilation and blockages.
Veins — These are blood vessels that return our blood from body tissue back into the heart. Veins are thinner than arteries and have tiny valves that prevent the unabated flow of blood toward the heart. Some of the larger veins such as the ones we find deep inside the legs are prone to clotting.
Capillaries — These are tiny blood vessels involved in transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste between arteries and veins.
Blood vessels are composed of three layers:
Intima — This is the innermost layer, lined with endothelial cells. This lining helps to prevent clotting within the vessels.
Media — This is the middle layer, made of muscle cells. It facilitates the contraction and expansion of vessels.
Adventitia — This the outer layer and it provides enough strength to ensure that the vessels do not ‘blow out’ as a result of strong vascular pressure.
HOW DOES THIS KEY SYSTEM SUPPORT OTHER BODILY FUNCTIONS?
Respiration — as you breathe, blood is flowing through capillaries in your lungs. Oxygen enters the lungs just as carbon dioxide gets expelled as waste. Oxygenated blood is then transported to tissues throughout your body.
Digestion — blood flows through the capillaries in the intestines, allowing nutrients to be collected such as glucose, vitamins, and minerals. Nutrient-rich blood is then transported to tissues throughout your body.
Lymphatic function — the lymphatic system is comprised of tiny vessels that pass through almost all our tissues and facilitate the movement of a clear fluid called lymph. Water and blood cells make up the lymphatic fluid. This fluid must be properly filtered and drained and the vascular system is involved.
Kidneys / Urinary System — your kidneys work in tandem with the vascular system to filter waste from the blood. Waste is then free to exit the body through the urine.
Temperature regulation — blood plays a critical role in helping the body to regulate its temperature. Our body tissues generate heat when nutrients are broken down for energy, new tissues are created, and waste is expelled.