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Take the testThe circulatory system is vital for transporting blood around the body, providing oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products like carbon dioxide. Here you'll find all the information you need about circulation, including topics such as memory loss, and varicose veins.
The body's circulatory system is a complex network of blood vessels which transport blood from the heart to all parts of the body, and back again to the heart. In doing so, the circulatory system supplies oxygen and nutrients to all body cells, as well as removing any waste products or toxins from the body. The flow of blood helps to heal any wounds or injuries in the body. It also regulates the temperature and pH level in the body.
The circulatory system is made up of 3 types of blood vessels:
Arterial circulation involves the arteries which carry blood away from the heart, while venous circulation consists of the veins which move blood towards the heart.
Arteries are strong and elastic vessels which contract with every heartbeat. This helps to keep your blood pressure at the correct level by expanding and contracting to adjust to the rate of blood flow.
Veins, such as the pulmonary veins or the vena cava, return blood to your heart. They have thinner walls than arteries and expand as the amount of blood flowing through them increases.
Poor arterial circulation can be the result of arteries narrowing or becoming blocked. In Western society, the most common cause of this is a build-up of cholesterol inside the walls of the arteries, causing a restriction of blood flow movement. This may lead to:
If you have poor venous circulation, your veins will struggle to return blood from your lower body, especially the legs, back up to your heart. This means that blood will collect in your veins and this is likely to lead to varicose veins.
Although varicose veins in themselves are often not a serious condition, they are an indication that all is not well with your circulation, and if you are concerned you should speak to your doctor.
There are several measures you can employ to help improve your circulation. Most of these are basic lifestyle tips which can have a surprisingly positive impact on your circulation and your general wellbeing:
Quick and simple tests to assess how well your working memory, short-term memory and long-term memory are working.
Take the testThe circulatory system - what is it, what happens when things go wrong, how to treat problems and common signs of poor circulation.
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