Author: Mrs. Saba Ruksaar
Volume: 01
First Online: 31 August 2024
Pages: 272-282
DOI:

The cardiovascular system’s function hinges on several key processes, including cardiac output, the cardiac cycle, blood pressure regulation, pulse, and heart health monitoring through electrocardiograms. Cardiac output refers to the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute, determined by heart rate and stroke volume, and is crucial for meeting the body’s oxygen and nutrient demands. The cardiac cycle is the sequence of events in a heartbeat, including systole (contraction) and diastole (relaxation), ensuring efficient blood circulation through the heart’s chambers and into the arteries. Regulation of blood pressure involves complex interactions between the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and the autonomic nervous system. It is vital for maintaining adequate perfusion to organs. The pulse, a palpable rhythmic expansion of arteries with each heartbeat, provides a simple measure of heart rate and rhythm. An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a diagnostic tool that records the heart’s electrical activity, allowing for the detection of arrhythmias, ischemia, and other cardiac abnormalities. Disorders of the heart, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias, can significantly impair the cardiovascular system’s function, leading to severe health consequences. Understanding these components is essential for diagnosing, treating, and preventing heart-related conditions, ensuring the cardiovascular system operates efficiently and effectively.