The Circulatory and Respiratory Systems

The Circulatory System

The circulatory system is responsible for exchanging gases, nutrients, and wastes in and out of the blood. This system supplies all of the cells and tissues in the body with fresh oxygen and nutrients, and carries away wastes including carbon dioxide. The heart, arteries, capillaries, veins, and blood are all part of the circulatory system. In this interactivity, explore the circulatory system and learn how it helps your body maintain homeostasis. Click the player button to begin.

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The Respiratory System

The respiratory system works with the circulatory system to exchange gases in and out of the body. The respiratory system supplies the blood with fresh oxygen and expels carbon dioxide and other gaseous wastes from the body. This gaseous exchange helps your body maintain homeostasis. The respiratory system consists of the mouth, nose, pharynx, larynx, epiglottis, trachea, lungs, bronchi, alveoli, and diaphragm. In this interactivity, learn about each part of the respiratory system. Click the player button to begin.

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Maintaining Healthy Circulatory and Respiratory Systems

It is very important to take care of your circulatory system. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. Risk factors of heart disease include high blood pressure, obesity, and high cholesterol. Exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and eating a healthy diet can lower your chances of developing heart disease.

Just as with your circulatory system, it is important to prevent disease, injury, or any other factor that may prevent healthy breathing. According to the National Institute of Health, infections like bronchitis or pneumonia can cause a buildup of mucus or fluid that narrows the airways and limits airflow in and out of your lungs. Asthma is a lung disease that inflames and narrows your airways, making it difficult to breathe. Symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and wheezing, often referred to as an "asthma attack". Poor air quality or strenuous exercise can trigger an asthma attack.

Cigarette smoke and other air pollutants can also negatively affect the lungs, causing different diseases, including cancer. Maintaining good hygiene habits, like hand washing and covering coughs, may help prevent sicknesses that can lead to infection in your bronchial tubes or deep in your lungs. Not smoking or exposing yourself to secondhand smoke and other air pollutants can help prevent lung cancer and other diseases.

 

The Circulatory and Respiratory Systems Review

Now that you have explored the circulatory and respiratory systems, review your knowledge. In this non-graded activity, read each question and select the correct response. Click the player button to get started.