Identify and describe the factors that directly affect blood flow in the circulatory system.

Week 3: discussion: blood vessel structure

1. Heart Rate. This directly influences the blood flow and the volume of blood that circulates through the body. The heart rate rises, which means more blood is circulated.

2. Blood vessels: How fast or slow blood flows throughout our bodies depends on the structure of these blood vessels. A person may experience a reduced blood flow rate due to narrowed or damaged veins.

3. Muscle movement: When your muscles contract, it creates suction forces which pull blood inwards and speed up circulation.

4. Fluid Volume: Dehydration from illness or lack of fluid can reduce fluid volume in the bloodstream, thereby decreasing its pressure and slowing down its circulation within the body’s tissues and organs for optimal health functions.