Cardiac physiology

Cardiac physiology is the study of the heart's function and its contribution to the overall function of the body. It involves understanding the heart's structure, the principles of its operation, and its relationship with the rest of the body.

Structure of the Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood throughout the body. It is divided into four chambers: the left and right atria and the left and right ventricles. The atria receive blood from the body and lungs, while the ventricles pump blood out to the body and lungs.

Function of the Heart

The heart functions as a pump, circulating blood throughout the body. It does this through a process known as the cardiac cycle, which consists of two main phases: diastole and systole. During diastole, the heart relaxes and fills with blood. During systole, the heart contracts and pumps blood out.

Regulation of Heart Function

The heart's function is regulated by a variety of factors, including the autonomic nervous system, hormones, and intrinsic factors within the heart itself. The autonomic nervous system controls the heart rate and force of contraction, while hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline can increase heart rate and contractility. Intrinsic factors include the heart's own electrical system, which initiates and coordinates the heart's contractions.

Relationship with the Rest of the Body

The heart is intimately connected with the rest of the body. It receives deoxygenated blood from the body through the veins, pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation, and then pumps the oxygenated blood back out to the body through the arteries. The heart also plays a key role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining the body's overall homeostasis.

See Also

• Cardiovascular system
• Heart
• Blood circulation
• Cardiac cycle

References

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