Involved in this process arefour heart valvesthat are synchronized to open and shut with each heartbeat.
This article maps the order of blood flow through the heart.
It also describes problems that can affect blood flow when different parts of the circulatory system malfunction.
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With each heartbeat, blood moves from one chamber to the next through a series of heart valves.
Oxygenated blood from the left side of the heart gets pumped out of the aorta.
The valves are comprised of flaps of muscular tissues that open in one direction.
The tricuspid, pulmonary, and aortic valves have three flaps, while the mitral valve has two flaps.
The tricuspid and mitral valves are located on each end of the two ventricles.
The sound of your heartbeat is largely due to the opening and shutting of the valves.
This rate can be higher or lower depending on your general health and physical fitness.
Athletes generally have a lower resting heart rate.
Your heart rate will increase when you move or engage in physical activity.
This is because your muscles use oxygen while they work.
In response, the heart works harder to bring oxygenated blood where it is needed.
Electrical impulses are generated to make your heart beat.
Heart valves open and shut to regulate blood flow.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About valvular heart disease.
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The Texas Heart Institute at St. Lukes Episcopal Hospital.Heart Anatomy.
