Cardiovascular System and Blood Overview

Cardiovascular System

• Composed of blood, heart, and blood vessels.

Blood Overview

• Blood is a liquid connective tissue made of cells in a liquid matrix known as plasma.
• Origin, composition, and functions of blood are similar across individuals but vary uniquely between them.

Hematology

• The study of blood, its formation, and associated disorders is termed hematology.

Functions of Blood

• Transports oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, hormones, heat, and waste products.
• Regulates the homeostasis of body fluids, pH balance, body temperature, and cellular water content.
• Protects against blood loss through clotting and combats infections via white blood cells.

Composition of Blood

• Cellular Components (Formed Elements):
  • Red blood cells (erythrocytes)
  • White blood cells (leukocytes)
  • Platelets (thrombocytes)
• Plasma:
  • Composed of water, proteins, and various solutes.

Physical Characteristics of Blood

• Denser and more viscous than water.
• Normal temperature: approximately 38°C.
• pH range: 7.35 to 7.45, indicating a slightly alkaline nature.
• Color varies based on oxygen content.
• Accounts for about 8% of total body mass.
• Regulated by aldosterone, antidiuretic hormone (ADH), and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) which adjust plasma water levels.