Summary: Cardiac Output and Blood Pressure
1. Blood pressure is the force of blood on the walls of the arteries. It is measured as
systolic and diastolic blood pressure in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
2. Blood pressure will be higher in vessels closer to the heart.
3. Blood pressure depends on the following:
- cardiac output: Increased cardiac output increases blood pressure.
- arteriolar resistance: If arteries are constricted, blood flow is slower and blood
pressure is higher.
4. Some cardiovascular problems are related to blood pressure.
- Hypertension is caused by increased resistance to blood flow, resulting in
sustained increase in blood pressure.
- Arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat, sometimes caused by a blocked coronary
artery.
- Tachycardia is a rapid heart rate.
5. In times of stress, arterioles to more essential body areas dilate and those to less
essential areas constrict.
Variation in Cardiovascular Output
The following seven factors can affect the health of the heart and result in
cardiovascular disorders:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
High levels of cholesterol in the blood
Smoking
Diabetes mellitus
High blood pressure
Lack of regular exercise
Rapid weight gain or loss
Genetic factors (congenital problems)
Cardiovascular Disorders:
a) Hypertension: The Silent Killer
b) Arrhythmia