The body is a network of veins, arteries and capillaries – all interconnected, and all trying to complete the vital task of carrying blood to every part of our bodies. Good blood circulation means getting oxygen-rich blood to even the farthest tips of our bodies, from fingers to toes. Normal circulation of blood carries nutrients [...]

Maintaining healthy water balance in the body is of vital importance to health. As the human body uses water for many biological processes, healthy fluid levels are necessary for bodily systems to function effectively, from the cardiovascular system to the immune system. When this water balance is disrupted and water retention occurs, many people turn [...]

The heart is an incredibly powerful organ that works constantly, without ever pausing to rest. Unlike other types of muscles, the cardiac muscle never gets tired, but relies on a steady flow of oxygenated blood to keep working. In one day, the heart transports all of its blood around the body about 1000 times! But [...]

Circulatory system problems arise when there is limited blood flow to the legs, hands, heart and rest of the body. The blood vessels become blocked as a fatty substance called plaque builds up and hardens and constricts the walls of the arteries and veins. This interrupts the normal flow of blood through the vessels and [...]

Blood pressure is defined as the force that the blood exerts on the veins and arteries while it circulates around the body. If this force is greater than it should be, it is often referred to as high blood pressure or hypertension. Blood pressure is controlled by a variety of organs and body systems, including [...]

Edema is the noticeable swelling resulting from fluid accumulation in certain body tissues. It is most commonly found in the feet, ankles and legs, although it may also affect the face, hands and other parts of the body and organs. Pregnant women and older adults are often affected with this condition, but it can happen [...]

The term circulation is most commonly associated with blood circulation in the body. Circulation is responsible for the action that moves nutrients, gases and wastes to and from cells, and helps stabilize body temperature and pH to maintain harmony. We cannot live without our blood circulating throughout our body. The heart acts as a pump, [...]

Blood pressure is the force that the blood exerts on the veins and arteries while it circulates through the body. We express the measurement of blood pressure as a ratio, such as 120/80 mmHg. The first number is the pressure exerted when blood is pumped into the arteries as the heart muscle contracts (systolic pressure). [...]

Arteriosclerosis is one of the most common diseases of the arteries. This disease occurs when plaque (which is made up of cholesterol, fibrin, platelets and other substances) forms on the walls of the arteries and obstructs the normal flow and circulation of blood. The arteries become narrowed and the walls lose their elasticity, causing blood [...]

Angina pectoris is the medical term for chest pain or the feeling of pressure in the chest that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive a sufficient supply of blood and oxygen. When the arteries supplying blood and oxygen to the heart are blocked, the blood flow to the heart muscle is obstructed and [...]